Laboratory Safety

This Laboratory Safety Guide was developed to assist those working in Stony Brook University laboratories by providing information on maintaining a safe laboratory and complying with environmental and safety regulations. It should serve as a reminder for safety equipment, information, and procedures that must be available to all university employees and students.

Please use the following links to navigate through this guide:

• Plan Your Work
• Follow All Safety Procedures
• Know Emergency Procedures
• Practice Good Housekeeping and Personal Hygiene
• Transport Chemicals Safely
• Unattended Operations
• Report Dangerous Activities or Situations
• Laboratory Compliance Inspection
• View Entire Guide

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Plan Your Work

• Before conducting any experiment, you should access the hazards related to the work, including; what are the worst possible things that could go wrong, how to deal with them, and what are the prudent practices, protective facilities and equipment necessary to minimize the risk of exposure to the hazards.
• Always know the hazards of the materials used (e.g., corrosivity, flammability, reactivity, and toxicity). Use the Project Hazard Review Checklist to help you with this assessment.
• Read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for information on all chemicals you plan to use. Make sure all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is on hand. Use the MSDS or Personal Protective Equipment Selection Guide to select the needed equipment.
• Post a sign on the door to notify others of the lab hazards and list emergency contact numbers.
• Inspect equipment and apparatus for weaknesses, cracks or damage before beginning work.
• Inspect electrical equipment and cords for frayed wiring or damage before use. Discard or repair damaged equipment before use.

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