Laboratory Safety/Identifying Emergency Equipment

Safety equipment is infrequently used, but its presence and maintenance is required in case of emergencies. Pictured, from left to right:safety shower; wall-mounted and portable eyewash; portable water and CO2 fire extinguishers; and fire blanket.

Emergency equipment takes many forms based on the kinds of hazards that are expected to be encountered in a laboratory. The most common emergency equipment is that which is used to stop or slow fires. This includes fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and other less obvious fire-resistant equipment such as explosion-proof refrigerators and fire-rated doors.

Other emergency equipment is present to address situations where a person is exposed to hazardous chemicals. Eye-wash stations allow for flushing of the eyes after exposure to a splash or chemical vapors, while safety showers can rinse chemicals from a person's skin or clothes.

These pieces of equipment should be clearly marked with signs and pictures, and are often marked on evacuation maps.

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