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Laboratory safety
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Why laboratory safety matters?
Laboratory environments are spaces of innovation, discovery and research. However, they also involve potential hazards that require strict safety protocols to ensure everyone’s wellbeing. This page has helpful information on safety procedures and best practices to maintain a safe and efficient laboratory environment.
Lab safety is not just about following rules; it's about protecting lives, ensuring research integrity, and fostering a culture of responsibility. Understanding and implementing safety measures is crucial for preventing accidents and minimising risks, from handling chemicals to operating equipment. We encourage all lab personnel to review this information regularly and prioritise safety in every activity. A safe lab is a successful laboratory.
Relevant High risk procedures
Helpful information
Code of Practices. E.g., Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace, Labelling of Workplace Hazardous Chemicals.
Australian Standards
Get Access to the Standards via the University’s Library subscription
- AS2243 “Safety in laboratories” series of standards
- AS 1940:2017 Storage and Handling of flammable liquids, and
- AS/NZS 4452:1997 The Storage and Handling of Toxic Substances and
- AS 3780:2008 The Storage and Handling of Corrosive Substances and
- AS 4326:2008 The storage and handling of oxidizing agents
- AS/NZS 5026:2012 The storage and handling of Class 4 dangerous goods
- AS/NZS 4681:2000 The storage and handling of Class 9 (miscellaneous) dangerous goods and articles
- AS/NZS 3833:2007 The storage and handling of mixed classes of dangerous goods, in packages and intermediate bulk containers
- AS/NZS IEC 60079.10.1:2022 Explosive atmospheres
- AS 4332:2004 The Storage and Handling of Gases in Cylinders
- AS 1894:1997 The storage and handling of non-flammable cryogenic and refrigerated liquids (Reconfirmed 2021).
- AS/NZS 1596:2014 The storage and handling of LP Gas
- AS 4603:1999 Flashback arresters - Safety devices for use with fuel gases and oxygen or compressed air (Reconfirmed 2016)
- AS/NZS 4501.1:2008 Occupational protective clothing Part1 Guidelines on the selection use care and maintenance of protective clothing
- AS/NZS 1715:2009 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.
- AS/NZS 2982:2010 Laboratory Design and Construction