PPE must be provided to and worn by all laboratory personnel, students, and visitors, when entering or working in a laboratory. At a minimum, a lab coat, gloves, eye protection, and closed-toed shoes are required. In some instances, additional protection may be necessary. MSDS provide specific PPE recommendations for handling chemicals.
PPE should be durable, designed to provide adequate protection, and capable of preventing exposure to hazardous substances. PPE must be removed before leaving the laboratory unless it is being used to safely transport substances between rooms and buildings.
While PPE is an important component of a comprehensive laboratory safety program, it is not a replacement for good laboratory techniques, procedures, and appropriate laboratory equipment. PPE is most effective when used in conjunction with good laboratory practices, administrative controls, engineering controls, and safety equipment.
Personal Protective lab Clothing
Protective lab clothing including a solid-front such as tie-back or wrap-around gowns, scrub suits, or coveralls are worn by workers when in the laboratory when necessary. Protective clothing is not worn outside of the laboratory.
If this safety issue is not respected, access to the Lab might be denied. Personal clothing must be considered when working in a laboratory. Loose sleeves, dangling jewelry, long hair and long scarves may become entangled in equipment, accidentally spill substances, or pass through flames unintentionally. Clothing that leaves the legs exposed should not be worn in the laboratory. Closed-toed footwear that provides adequate support and has suitable traction for laboratory activities is required. Shoes with heels greater than 2.5cm are discouraged.