LAB SAFETY FOR CUSTODIANS
Lab Waste Biological Waste Chemical Waste Regulated Medical Waste Non- Regulated Medical Waste Radioactive Waste
Biohazardous Waste (Regulated Medical Waste) Wastes that are exposed to this must be disposed of in special ways. They could be contaminated with infectious organisms or agents. These wastes include: cultured stocks and plates, human blood and tissue. Sharps ( glass implements, needles, syringes, blades, etc.) For disposal, the lab personnel: Sterilize waste materials associated with the waste. Organize all biohazards wastes in containers and notify the janitor for pick-up when it has been full.
Chemical and Other Waste They are not contaminated in biological agents. These must be discarded in regular trash bins and recyclables. These items include: Recyclable waste glass Non-recyclable waste glass gloves Unused plates or tubes Fly media or embryo plates Etc.
Non-Regulated Medical Waste Also known as over-classified material and general trash.
Radioactive Waste
General Precautions Laboratories on campus contain hazardous materials such as biological, chemical, and radioactive materials. Some general precautions to follow are: Read Laboratory door signs for physical and health hazards in the work area; Look for common hazard warnings and use the controls (including personal protective equipment & clothing by signs on the door; DO NOT TOUCH laboratory research chemicals or equipment (ask laboratory personnel to move lab equpmetn or containers that are in your way.)
General Precautions DO NOT EAT OR DRINK in the labs and always wash your hands before eating; If there is a spill, report it to laboratory personnel and your supervisor immediately; Report and unsafe condition to your supervisor (when in doubt. ASK!) Stay out of controlled areas such as: Fume hoods Biosafety cabinets Rooms with operating lasers (look for signs and warning lights) Radioactive material work areas
Exposures to Infectious Agents Exposure is defined as contact with broken skin, eyes, nose, mouth, other mucous membranes, a percutaneous injury with a contaminated sharp, or contact with and infectious agent over a large area of apparently intact skin. To the SKIN: Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash the contaminated area with soap and water for 15 minutes. To the EYES: Immediately flush the eye with water for at least 15 minutes at an eyewash or faucet. Remove contact lenses while flushing the eye.
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Gloves must be worn when skin is exposed to custodial chemicals and unsanitary surfaces; Slip resistant shoes should be worn when slip hazards exist; Safety glasses should be worn when entering laboratories; Wear lab coats, gowns, smocks, or other provided protective garments while working with hazardous materials; When leaving the lab, remove and leave coats and other protective clothing in the lab for either disposal or laundering;
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Protective eyewear should be worn; Wear gloves when manipulating infectious materials or agents or when hands must otherwise contact contaminated surfaces; Remove and change gloves when overtly contaminated or when torn or punctured; Do not wear contaminated gloves outside the lab; Do not wash or reuse disposable gloves. Wear gloves if the skin on the hands is broken or if a rash is present;
Good Housekeeping Practices Keep aisles, passage ways, stairways, and floors clear of tools, materials, boxes, cords, cables, air hoses, and trash. Close drawers Stack materials carefully, so they won t fall or block sprinkler access. Clean up all spills immediately and properly- or call someone who can.
Good Housekeeping Practices Avoid keeping food and beverages in the work area. Place all trash in proper containers- closed metal containers for combustible waste. Don t let paper or other combustibles come in contact with lights or electrical equipment. Don t place tools or equipment on the edges of shelves or tables.
ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS CONTACT THE EHS OFFICE AT EXT-5105