Equipment Safety
Equipment safety is a critical part of the laboratory safety program.
Before purchasing new equipment
- Verify that the lab has the required utility capacity (e.g. exhaust, electricity, waster, etc.)
- Equipment is inherently safe and in compliance with US Federal and State regulatory compliance requirements.
- Contact ROEHS for review and approval of equipment including:
- CT scanners
- 3D printers
- Electron microscopes
- Emergency eyewash / safety shower
- Fume hoods and ventilated enclosures
- Gas chromatographs with electron capture detectors
- Gas monitoring equipment
- Gas scrubbers
- Gas storage cabinets
- Respirators (including SCBA)
- Static eliminator devices
- X-ray producing equipment
- Laser cutters
- Class 3d or 4 lasers
Before operating new equipment
- Perform a hazard review
- Develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Maintain user manual and all other technical documents in a safe place
- Train all users
- Refresher training
- Document training records
After operation of new equipment
- Make sure manufacturer’s required test, calibration, and maintenance is followed
- Re-evaluate the safety program and make adjustments as needed