Checklist for the work environment and safety in the labs2018-12-03

Date
LAB
Persons present
Issue / Check / Comment/remark
Solvents
The amount of flammable solvents (flash point <1000C) does not exceed 10 liters per fire cell (in the lab, non-ventilated areas).
The amount of flammable solvents (flash point <1000C) does not exceed 50 liters per fire cell (in the lab, both ventilated and non-ventilated areas).
The yellow cabinets (90 min) are separate fire cells for storage – unlimited storage amount.
There are routines for safe washing with acetone. Acetone waste is collected and properly disposed of.
Laboratory co-workers
All laboratory workers use proper protective wear (goggles, lab coat and gloves – if needed).
All experiments are documented and their risk assessments are properly done. Check that all your co-workers are familiar with the routines, for example by random checks.
All chemicals are properly registered in KLARA.
A yearly revision has been made.
There are established routines for what to do at the end of each day (shut gas taps, water taps and unnecessary equipment).
All co-workers know where to shut of the water and gases.
All co-workers are aware of the location of the first-aid station.
All co-workers are aware of the location of the closest fire extinguishers and emergency showers.
All co-workers are aware of the waste handling (halo/non-halo solvents, solid waste, sharps and other lab-specific waste) and how it is stored until removed by the TA-staff.
No food or drinks are present in the lab.
All flasks and containers are properly labeled.
All equipment and glass ware are kept in safe condition.
General order in the lab and middle-labs
The floors are free from equipment, waste, bottles or other stuff that may pose a risk.
All electric equipment is in a safe condition (for example, no naked cables) and the cords are properly organized.
No chemicals are stored on the benches, and the benches are free from clutter.
Issue / Check / Comment/remark
General order in the lab and middle-labs (cont.)
No objects are stored on top of fridges, freezers and ovens that pose a risk of fire.
No objects are stored on top of cabinets with the risk of falling.
No unnecessary objects are stored in the lab or middle-labs.
Corrosive chemicals are not stored above eye-height (150 cm).
The amount of combustible material is limited to a minimum.
All surfaces are free from chemical contamination.
Empty solvent bottles are aired out and without lids attached.
There are routines for silica handling (in ventilated area).
Gas cylinders are secured by chains to a permanent installation.
The lab is properly labeled with signs regarding which gas cylinders are in use.
All tubing (water cooling and vacuum equipment) are in good condition and properly attached.
No combustible material is located close to heat sources such as heating guns, ovens and heating plates.
All stored chemicals are regularly checked for leakage and cracks, etc.
Oxidizing substances stored in plastic bottles must be no older than 5 years to prevent cracking.
Safety equipment
The emergency eye shower and shower are checked at least once per month.
No objects are blocking emergency showers or fire extinguishers.
The first aid station is up-to-date and properly filled.
Fume hoods
No excess storage of equipment and chemicals, etc.
The sash and ventilation are working properly.
Comment here if any reorganization of the lab, safety concerns etc. have been identified.