In an effort to promote a safe work environment, it is important that COE lab personnel practice good housekeeping to keep clutter and excess material from accumulating.
The following is helpful information that pertains to this expectation.
Maintain Egress Routes
Egress paths must be kept clear at all times so that efficient and quick evacuation of the lab and/or building may occur at anytime in the event of a fire or emergency situation. Main egress aisles must be maintained to a minimum of 36″ at all times, and 44″ for exit to exit discharge points.
Do your part to move clutter or idle objects that are not in-use from these egress aisles.
Chemical Housekeeping
The following are good housekeeping tips for the storage and use of chemicals in labs.
- Ensure that chemicals remain closed when not in use
- Ensure that the labels are legible and intact on chemical bottles, and that secondary containers are properly labeled.
- Store all hazardous chemicals below eye level to reduce risk of splash injuries.
Emergency Equipment
- Ensure that equipment such as fire extinguishers and pull stations are not blocked by equipment. During a fire, every second counts, so the user must be able to identify and use the equipment immediately. Electrical panels must also have 36″ clearance around them so that first responders may access them in an emergency.
- There must be 18″ of clearance maintained around sprinkler heads, so that they are able to deploy and extinguish properly. Do not hang items off or block them.
- Emergency eyewash/showers should also be kept clear, as the user may have diminished vision and any obstacles or obstructions could inhibit them from locating and using the station.
No Food or Drink Allowed
Do not keep or consume food or open beverages in labs. It can be easy for food or drink items to be contaminated with chemicals or biological materials if they are in the vicinity, which can then be ingested by those eating the food.
