BEST PRACTICES

Even when not required by environmental regulations, the following best practices for laboratory emergency equipment are recommended.

1. Emergency eyewash stations & showers in areas where there is the potential to come into contact with hazardous chemicals, with unobstructed access from any point in the lab within 10 seconds, and located on the same level as the potential hazard.
2. Fire extinguishers easily accessible, and of of size and type to be effective against an anticipated fire.
3. Fire Blankets.
4. Communications systems including telephones, radios, alarms.
5. Emergency personal protective equipment including SCBA’s, disposable coveralls, gloves, eye protection, short-term escape respirators.
6. Spill control equipment including, spill pillows, absorbent pads, drum berms, drain plugs, hand pumps, neutralization solutions.
7. Air monitoring instrumentation, either portable or fixed systems if needed.
8. First aid kit, including burn kit.
9. Periodic inspection of equipment to ensure its effectiveness and availability.
10. Hands-on training for laboratory personnel on the use of emergency equipment.