Clinical laboratories house hazardous samples, equipment, and supplies. If you’re a staff member of a clinical lab, it’s important to stay aware and safeguard yourself against potential problems.
Protect your physical health in the workplace by learning about three common hazards in a clinical laboratory.
1. Chemical Hazards
Chemicals can be corrosive to your skin and eyes, so it’s important to wear the right personal protective equipment to avoid burns from spills and splashes. Your facility should inform you about the hazards in your workplace and train you on how to work with chemicals.
You should know your laboratory’s chemical hygiene plan (CHP). The CHP is a federally mandated document that details information that keeps you safe around hazardous chemicals. The CHP is a necessary step in creating a safe laboratory for workers.
2. Biological Hazards
Biohazards commonly found in clinical labs include blood, tissue, and pathogens. Viruses can be transmitted when infected fluids contact someone’s mouth, eyes, or broken skin.
Avoid transmission by disposing of needles and other sharps that have come into contact with blood or tissue samples. Empty sharps disposal containers before they get over two-thirds full. If you have any cuts on your skin, keep them covered. Clean all spills properly and immediately, and wear PPE.
3. Physical Hazards
The third common hazard in a clinical laboratory relates to physical hazards, including fire, electrical safety, housekeeping, and injuries from handling equipment. Try to maintain a good posture throughout your workday and take breaks to stretch periodically. For example, looking up periodically and rolling your head around slowly can help you prevent neck and back pain associated with prolonged hunching.
Keep your lab clean to avoid slips, trips, and falls. Walkways should remain clear of clutter, including electrical cords. Equipment, samples, and supplies should stay organized. This will help prevent the risk of fire and electrical issues, too.
Christina Duron is a writer living in the Chicagoland area. Her passion for writing and health helps create thought-provoking and engaging pieces and hopes to use them to empower readers to play a more active role in their personal healthcare journey.
