7 Essential Lab Fire Safety Tips
Labs are hubs for student learning, experimentation and problem-solving! However, without the proper training and knowledge of lab safety, they can quickly turn into a fire hazard. In fact, fires are one of the most common accidents that occur in these environments.
To decrease the risk of fire in your lab, it’s important to prioritize lab safety!
Take a look at these helpful tips that will help equip you and your students with the knowledge and practices needed to maintain a safe lab setting:
1. Know the emergency procedures
Before even stepping into the lab, familiarize students with the lab’s fire emergency procedures, including evacuation routes, assembly points and alarm systems. A good way to know if your students understand the emergency procedures is to quiz them!
2. Understand lab layout and equipment
Have a clear understanding of the layout of the lab, locations of fire extinguishers, fire blankets, emergency showers and eyewash stations. Make sure students know how to operate all safety equipment, including the different types of fire extinguishers and how to use them properly.
3. Handle chemicals and flammables safely
Follow proper protocols for handling, storing and disposing of chemicals. Use fume hoods like our Protocol Fume Hood for volatile or hazardous substances.
Store flammable liquids, gases and materials in approved containers and cabinets, following the correct guidelines for storage. Our Protocol Wood or Steel Flammables Cabinets are a great solution for storing flammable, hazardous materials and liquids.
We also offer our Protocol Steel Oily Waste Can, which is ideal for properly discarding materials soaked with solvents and other flammable liquids.
4. Be mindful of heat sources
Keep heat sources such as soldering irons, ovens and hot plates away from flammable materials and ensure proper ventilation in the area.
Do not leave Bunsen burners, hot plates or any open flames unattended. Turn off heating equipment and extinguish flames when not in use.
5. Wear the proper safety gear
Set students up with fire-resistant lab coats, gloves and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves from potential burns and injuries.
6. Keep the space clean and organized
While experiments can be fun, they can also get messy fast! That’s why it’s important to teach students how to keep a clean and organized workspace to reduce the risk of fires. Quickly clean up spills, dispose of waste properly and store materials neatly. Also ensure that aisles, exits and pathways are clear of clutter and obstructions at all times to make evacuation easier.
7. Report and address hazards
Encourage students to report potential fire hazards or safety concerns in a timely manner. Address reported issues to mitigate risks and maintain a safe lab environment.
Contact us today to discover how we can help provide lab safety equipment to help maintain a safe laboratory environment for everyone.