Safety Alerts

There is a lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) exemption for servicing and maintenance activities on “cord and plug” equipment such as reconfiguring gas lines, vacuum tubing, or adjusting valves. Cord and plug equipment refers to equipment that uses a single flexible cord and plug to connect to a source of electrical energy. Learn more about cord and plug procedures.

Proper identification of chemical and sample containers is important for the safety of lab personnel and emergency responders. Chemicals that are not properly identified could be improperly handled or mixed. Learn more about the importance of chemical labels.

Research in our lab areas involves the use of various gas and water lines. It is important that these are clearly identified to ensure the correct gas is connected to the correct equipment. In addition, clear identification of both gas and water lines are crucial in the event that emergency responders such as the fire department need to enter a lab area. Learn more about how to identify gas lines. 

Ensure all gas cylinders have a RFID tag associated with them. This Safety Alert describes two ways to maintain RFID tags for commonly used gas cylinders that are changed out frequently: Static RFID Tags for Commonly Used Gas Cylinders

Squeeze bottles are commonly used in laboratory areas. They provide a quick and easy source of commonly used solvents such as Acetone, Isopropyl Alcohol, Methanol, and Ethanol. These are all flammable solvents and care is needed to prevent fires or dangerous chemical reactions. Learn about precautions to take when using and storing squeeze bottles.