What are the main health and safety issues for laboratory technicians and technologists?
Laboratory technicians work in a variety of settings. Some settings, such as hospitals, chemical production and pharmaceuticals may contain many specific hazards which lab techs must be aware of. The main health and safety issues for laboratory technicians included: • Toxic, corrosive, and flammable chemicals – chemical hazards. • Compressed gases. • Handling blood, body fluids, and tissues which may contain infectious agents – biological hazards. Needlestick injuries are a special concern. • Fires from flammable materials and electronic equipment. • Physical hazards such as radioactive materials, ultraviolet light sterilizers and lasers. • Cryogenic (ultra-cold) materials such as liquid nitrogen and dry ice (solid carbon dioxide). • Working in awkward positions and standing for long periods of time – back and arm injuries. • Repetitive motions. • Working with electrical equipment and instruments – electrical hazards. • Vacuum lines and pumps and vacuum systems. • Slips, trips and fall
