Diagnostic Lab Safety Protocols That Must Be Followed

 Many people are unaware of what it takes to work in a lab setting and perform the dangerous job lab technicians are required to do.  When you work in a diagnostic dermatopathology in Pittsburgh, PA, safety is the primary concern.  Certain regulations and protocols are in place to protect the sample sent by medical facilities, the safety of the technicians working, and the safety of the lab equipment and building.  When it comes to handling samples, performing tests, using hazardous chemicals, and performing any tasks in the lab, you must follow the rules.  There are a few critical safety protocols that you need to follow when you are working in a diagnostic lab.

Follow All Instructions

One of the most basic ways to stay safe while working in a lab is to follow the instructions of your procedures.  Become familiar with the proper steps to follow for common procedures, experiments, and tests.  Knowing these steps before you begin will prevent mistakes and injuries from occurring.  Also, it will preserve the equipment by ensuring proper care.  

Know Where to Find Help

In case of an accident or emergency, you should always be aware of where the find help.  Labs are stocked with proper equipment in case of emergencies, such as eye washes and showers.  You will want to know the location of safety equipment so you are not lost in the event of an accident.

Dress Properly

Lab technicians must follow the recommended dress code.  This helps protect both the experiments and their body.  It is recommended to cover any exposed skin, such as toes and fingers, when performing certain experiments.  Gloves, closed-toed shoes, and lab coats are often worn to protect your body and clothing from accidental spills or contamination.  

Avoid Food and Drink

It is healthy to avoid bringing any food or drink in the pathology laboratory setting.  This prevents any cross-contamination between your substances and the samples you are testing.  Also, do not store your lunch or any other food items in the laboratory refrigerators.  This could be damaging to your food.  Keep your drinks out of the lab to avoid spills and distractions.

Never Play

The lab is a serious place.  You should always stick to your work duties and follow the regulations when you are doing your laboratory experiments and procedures.  Do not engage in play or recreational experimentation. This can be extremely dangerous for both you and the tests you need to perform.

These are just a few of the important lab safety procedures lab technicians need to follow each and every day while working in the diagnostic lab.  Lab technicians need to be sure that they uphold the safety regulations that their keep themselves and their lab protected.  These safety protocols ensure the proper handling of samples of dermatopathology in Pittsburgh, PA.  Contact us to hear about our safe and quality diagnostic lab services today.