Laboratory Safety Chapter 2

Laboratory managers, Quality managers (or designated Safety Officers), and Laboratorians are the three main stakeholders responsible for ensuring laboratory safety.

Loss of reputation and increased costs due to litigation and insurance are two potential secondary effects of a laboratory accident.

It is important for laboratory directors to participate in design to ensure that the facilities meet specific laboratory needs and promote safety.

<p>Quality managers should ensure that personnel are trained in their specific duties related to the new activities introduced.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A critical consideration is ensuring that patients and patient samples do not have common circulation pathways.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A Laboratorian should be aware of basic safety rules and biosafety management issues when working with toxic chemicals and biological samples.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Conducting laboratory safety audits is important to assess compliance with safety protocols and identify areas for improvement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Risk assessment plays a critical role in identifying potential hazards and determining safety measures for new laboratory activities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To ensure safety and prevent cross-contamination by limiting access to authorized personnel only.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Placing both the reception desk and the sample collection room near the entry door improves efficiency.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>They should never cross to minimize contamination risks within the laboratory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It requires at least two separate rooms to prevent cross-contamination during DNA extraction and amplification.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Ensure there are no physical restrictions, like inadequate door or elevator sizes, that could hinder equipment delivery or maintenance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Durable materials that are easy to disinfect, such as ceramic tiles, are preferred over wood or untreated surfaces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Wood is difficult to clean, can harbor contaminants, and deteriorates quickly with exposure to disinfectants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Laboratories must have active ventilation systems to ensure proper air circulation and maintain a safe environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A stable power supply, along with a backup power source for emergencies, is crucial for sensitive laboratory equipment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Regular disinfection of the grout is necessary to prevent the harboring of contaminating microorganisms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Central location minimizes distances for circulation of materials, samples, and goods, improving efficiency.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Effective communication systems facilitate efficient and reliable message transfer within the laboratory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Walls and ceilings should be painted with washable and glossy paint to enable proper cleaning and disinfection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Compliance with local and national requirements is crucial to prevent contamination from hazardous waste.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Safety procedures are crucial for preventing accidents, injuries, and contamination while ensuring the well-being of laboratory staff.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It is necessary to document exposures to identify patterns and implement preventive measures for future occurrences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Laboratory equipment can cause injuries such as electrical shock, burns, or exposure to harmful radiation if not used properly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Compressed gas cylinders must be chained to the wall and have safety caps secured over their valves when not in use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Sharps should be placed in a puncture-resistant and leak-proof container labeled with the word 'SHARPS'.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The three main routes are inhalation, skin absorption, and ingestion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Labeling chemicals ensures that their common names, concentrations, and hazards are clearly communicated to prevent accidents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>An MSDS provides hazard information, recommended personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency procedures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Aerosols are tiny droplets that can travel long distances and serve as a major source of contamination in diagnostic laboratories.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Radioactive materials require dedicated storage areas with appropriate protection and specific waste containers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Decontamination prevents exposure to hazardous residues and protects waste handlers from potential harm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>PPE protects laboratory staff from exposure to hazards, including chemicals, biological agents, and physical risks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Management of biological hazards includes using containment systems to block aerosol diffusion and following proper disposal procedures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Recording these dates helps ensure the safe use of chemicals and aids in inventory management.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Many institutions have replaced latex gloves with nitrile gloves because latex can cause allergic reactions and sensitivities in some individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Nitrile gloves are typically more puncture-resistant than rubber gloves and offer protection against infectious materials and many hazardous chemicals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Cryogenic gloves should be used when handling materials like liquid nitrogen or dry ice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Gloves should not be reused because they may become contaminated or lose their protective properties.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Chemical-resistant gloves should be selected based on the specific chemicals in use and the manufacturer’s compatibility charts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Respiratory PPE is used to protect against exposure to hazardous atmospheres, including airborne particles such as dust and pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The main difference is that P100 respirators are 99.97% efficient at stopping particles, while N95 respirators are 95% efficient.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Fit testing for respirators should be conducted annually to ensure proper seal and effectiveness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>PAPRs are powered air purifying respirators that supply purified air and do not require a tight fit, unlike traditional respirators.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Neoprene gloves are synthetic rubber gloves that are liquid-proof and chemical-resistant, though not always flexible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A respiratory protection program includes evaluations, medical clearances, fit testing, training, and policies to ensure the safe use of respirators.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Facemasks, such as surgical and dust masks, are not suitable for protection against hazardous materials because gases and tiny particles can pass through them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>N95 respirators must meet NIOSH certification standards for effective filtration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Evaluating respiratory hazards is important to determine the appropriate PPE needed to protect against potential exposure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Lab coats are commonly made from 35% polyester and 65% cotton blends, providing semi-fire-retardant properties from cotton and chemical resistance from polyester.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Gowns provide a broad barrier and increased protection from splashes, especially in higher-risk work settings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A chemical-resistant apron should be made of materials like plastic or neoprene and fit comfortably, extending from just below the neck to just above the feet.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Safety glasses do not provide a secure seal around the eyes, which allows chemicals to seep in through gaps.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The ANSI Z87.1 - 2010 standard ensures that safety glasses meet requirements for impact and shatter resistance, enhancing user safety.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Safety goggles form a protective seal around the eyes, preventing objects or liquids from entering, unlike safety glasses which do not seal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>When wearing gloves, avoid touching non-lab items and change gloves upon any contamination to minimize the risk of spreading hazardous substances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Disposable gloves should not be reused to prevent exposure to contaminants that may exist on the glove's surface after use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Common glove types include latex for biological hazards, nitrile for chemical resistance, insulated for thermal protection, and chemical-resistant gloves for corrosive substances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Safety glasses should be regularly cleaned with appropriate cleaners and replaced when scratched or damaged.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Face shields provide additional eye and face protection against splashes and are used alongside goggles or safety glasses for enhanced safety.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>An ideal lab coat should cover the entire upper body, extend to the knees, fit comfortably, and possess fitted wristbands to resist splashes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Factors include the type of hazards present, the need for dexterity, and the specific materials that the gloves should be resistant to.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Chemical-resistant gloves are necessary when handling corrosive chemicals, performing tasks likely to cause splashes, or working with hazardous materials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To protect the wearer from exposure to various occupational hazards and minimize the risk of injury or infection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Inhalation of aerosols and percutaneous inoculation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Goggles protect the eyes and other mucous membranes from exposure to droplets that may occur during procedures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Gloves must be disposed of in contaminated waste and should never be reused or washed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Ventilation helps to manage airflow and reduce potential exposure to airborne pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Additional eye protection such as goggles must be worn over contact lenses to prevent splash exposure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To minimize risks of cross-contamination and ensure adequate space for equipment and documentation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The CDC recommends eliminating hazards as the primary method to ensure safety in the workplace.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The technical staff performing the tests.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Disposable laboratory coats help contain contamination and protect against highly dangerous pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Remove gloves when leaving the working area to prevent contamination of surfaces and objects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Training should cover universal precautions, infection control, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To identify and mitigate potential safety hazards and ensure ongoing safety protocols are followed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Face shields and masks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The hazards present, the type of work operations, and the nature and quantity of hazardous materials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Personal protective equipment (PPE).</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Respirators serve to protect the wearer from inhaling harmful airborne substances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Eating, drinking, smoking, handling contact lenses, and applying cosmetics are prohibited.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It must be decontaminated by autoclaving, chemical disinfection, or incineration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Laboratory staff should immediately follow established spill protocols and wear appropriate PPE to clean it up safely.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Remove gloves before leaving the working area and never reuse or wash them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To prevent dangerous reactions and ensure safe handling of materials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>For the safe disposal of needles, broken glassware, and other sharp objects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Ceilings and walls might be scheduled for cleaning on a weekly basis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To develop and organize safety measures and ensure compliance with safety protocols.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Use chemical fume hoods or containment devices for vapors and aerosols.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To ensure safety by limiting exposure to hazardous materials and potential risks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Written procedures for safety and biosafety practices in the laboratory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A PAPR typically includes a removable hood/headpiece, connector hose, battery pack, and HEPA filter.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Closed-toed footwear that fully covers the feet is recommended to protect against chemical spills and contamination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Disposable sleeve guards should be used when lab coat sleeves are too short or when working in molecular testing labs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The purpose of a PPE program is to identify hazards, select appropriate PPE, and ensure proper training and monitoring.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>PPE should meet safety requirements, provide adequate protection, and suit the specific risks present in the lab.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Employers should train workers on when PPE is necessary, how to wear it properly, and its limitations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A hazard assessment helps identify appropriate PPE needed based on the specific risks of laboratory tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Laboratory coat or gown, nitrile gloves, and safety glasses or face shields are typically worn.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Management should assess that staff can properly don, adjust, wear, and doff PPE before they can perform tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Additional PPE may be needed in high-risk settings or during specific laboratory processes that pose greater hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The Safety Plan documents tasks, associated hazards, and required PPE for protection and mitigation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Not adhering to PPE protocols can result in contamination, exposure to hazards, and increased risk of accidents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Providing PPE at no cost removes barriers to compliance and ensures that all staff have access to necessary protection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Clothing made of natural fibers is fire-resistant and helps protect against chemical exposure.</p> Signup and view all the answers