The composition of a laboratory can vary significantly depending on the nature of scientific research undertaken.
Some will include dangerous chemicals, radioactive materials, biological specimens, sharp implements, fragile glassware, and combustible substances. Consequently, individuals within the lab environment must have a heightened awareness of the potential hazards inherent in these components. To ensure a secure work environment, mitigate health risks, and prevent incidents involving flammable materials, it is imperative to prominently display safety symbols and health hazard signs throughout the workspace.
Here's a look at some of the most common pieces of signage that can be found in a laboratory setting.
Why are safety signs and symbols important in a laboratory?
Safety signs in a lab are of paramount importance due to their central role in ensuring safety, compliance, and effective communication. These signs serve as constant visual reminders of potential hazards, safety protocols, and necessary precautions, helping to reduce the risk of accidents, chemical exposures, and injuries. They provide essential information about the nature of chemicals, equipment, and procedures, aiding in hazard recognition and management.
7 Most Common Laboratory Safety Signs
Here are just a few of the many safety signs you could find in a laboratory.
1. Flammable Material
Substances marked with this label are prone to ignition and should be stored in a manner consistent with their flammability. Certain laboratories provide designated storage areas for these materials.
When handling substances with flammable properties, ensure they are kept at a safe distance from oxidising agents, open flames, or sources of sparks. Additionally, it's essential to wear protective eyewear when working with highly flammable compounds.
2. Toxic Material
Substances marked with this label are exceptionally hazardous and, in severe instances, can result in fatality if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
It is crucial to consistently use eye protection, gloves, and a face mask to guard against inhalation when dealing with toxic substances.
3. Corrosive Material
These chemicals possess potent, corrosive properties capable of causing harm to your skin and other materials.
It is vital to recognise that even a single drop of these corrosive substances has the potential to inflict severe damage. When handling corrosive materials, it is imperative to utilise non-corrosive gloves, wear eye protection, and wear lab coats as safety measures.
4. Oxidising Material
Substances displaying this sign play a critical role in extracting an electron from another compound, constituting a fundamental component in oxidation-reduction reactions. Extreme caution is essential when incorporating them into chemical reactions, such as when mixing them with other compounds while preparing a solution.
Mishandling oxidising agents can lead to personal injury or ignite clothing, underscoring the importance of wearing protective gloves, eye gear, and lab coats as precautionary measures.
5. Health Hazard
Chemicals falling within this classification can pose significant risks to your health, encompassing the potential for reproductive toxicity, respiratory system complications, germ cell mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. It is vital to familiarise yourself with this lab safety sign, as many of the chemicals in laboratory inventories carry these grave health hazards.
6. Biohazard
You can find this sign posted on laboratory doors or bins as a precautionary measure to alert you that you are entering a zone where biological materials like cell lines, bacterial cultures, or human samples are being utilised. These signs also serve as guidance on the appropriate disposal locations for waste related to these organisms.
7. High Voltage
High voltage signs in a lab are a crucial safety measure to protect personnel from electrical hazards and to ensure compliance with safety regulations. They serve as a visual reminder to exercise caution and follow safety procedures when working near high voltage equipment.
Ensure optimal laboratory safety with Label Source
Here at Label Source, we provide a wide range of lab safety labels, designed to minimise the risk of infection in the laboratory; these labels and tapes can be used to alert staff, visitors, couriers, and emergency services in situations where they may come into contact with infectious materials.
