Overview
- Lab coats are generally acceptable when the potential for contact with significant quantities of hazardous materials is relatively low.
- Lab coats should be flame retardant if there is a risk of fire due to open flames or chemical reaction.
- Coats must be of the appropriate size to the wearer.
- Coats must be fastened closed with buttons or snaps while being worn. Sleeves must extend to the wrist. Sleeves are not to be rolled up to expose the arm.
- Chemical-resistant apron and sleeves are appropriate when there is significant splash hazard while handling corrosives and chemicals that are toxic by skin absorption.
In a typical laboratory setting where small containers of biological agents, radioactive materials, or hazardous chemicals are handled, a lab coat is the minimum required body protection. Gowns and coveralls are acceptable alternatives. In this type of setting, potential for contact with significant quantities of hazardous materials/agents is relatively low. Lab coats protect the body against incidental exposure to hazardous agents and minimize potential for “transferring” hazardous agents to other areas through contaminated clothing.
In situations where the potential for chemical contact is greater than incidental, specialized chemical-resistant clothing is appropriate. For example, chemical-resistant apron and sleeves are appropriate when there is significant splash hazard while handling corrosives and chemicals that are toxic by skin absorption.
Protective clothing should be left in the laboratory to minimize the possibility of spreading chemicals to public, assembly, eating or office areas. Improperly stored PPE would be sited under PPE03.
The lab coat/outer garment should be constructed of flame retardant material if there is risk of flash fire (e.g., flammable solvents, air/water reactive materials).