In laboratories thousands of chemicals are used and a lot of analyzing methods applied. Therefore, it is not possible to give a standard instruction to handle safety, health and environmental risks in laboratories.
Managing safety, health and environmental risks in laboratories trains therefore the researcher to analyze his/her own risks. An easy guide to risk assessment, an easy method to find appropriate measures. A source oriented approach guarantees efficient risk reduction. With the proper attention combined with logical thinking every laboratory worker will find elegant and practical solutions to improve the workplace.
In this book you find some backgrounds of mechanisms influencing risk perception of you and your colleagues: knowledge, habits, controllability of the risks, physical and emotional distance, cultural influences. Why is someone handling carcinogenic substances without gloves? Is it lack of knowledge? Mostly not. By discussing other influences there can evolve beautiful, more practical solutions. Replacing the carcinogenic substance, an adjusted workflow, better gloves...
The book gives an overview of most common risks in laboratories and measures to avoid them. The following hazards are discussed: hazardous chemicals, biological hazards, radiation hazards, equipment, gas cylinders, cryogenic substances, glassware and physical strain (lab ergonomics).