Emergency Preparedness and Response - Personal Equipment

                                                                      Minimum Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When working with laboratory hazards, always wear at least the minimum personal protective equipment or PPE.  PPE includes eye protection such as goggles, gloves, a lab coat, and close-toed shoes.  PPE above the minimum may be required at times. 

Eye Protection

Wear safety glasses or splash goggles when working with laboratory hazards. Your everyday prescription glasses do not provide adequate protection from hazards. Appropriate eyewear will be marked with the ANSI Z87.1 marking.

Gloves

Wear gloves appropriate to the hazard. Check the gloves periodically and replace them if damaged.  Remove your gloves carefully to avoid contaminating your skin.

Laboratory Coat

Always wear a lab coat when working with hazards.  Lab coats protect your body from harmful contaminants and limit contamination of your personal clothing. Your lab coat should be laundered periodically and free of holes and tears. Do not launder your lab coat with your personal clothing.

Foot Protection

Always wear fully enclosed shoes to protect your feet from anything dropped or spilled. Sandals are not allowed in the laboratory.

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