Implementing Laboratory Safety in the Academic Settings

Abstract

Safety in the chemistry laboratory is undoubtedly a primary concern as safe environment at any workplace ensures the better quality and productivity. The death of Marie Curie due to aplastic anemia brought on by exposure to radiation while carrying test tubes of radium in her pockets during her research is a wellknown example that proves the importance of safety in the field of chemistry. Fatal accidents occurred in the academic laboratories in the recent past have drawn the attention of federal authorities and media and have thus highlighting the importance of teaching and implementation of laboratory safety in the academic settings [1-8]. It is crucial to develop a genuine safety culture in research and teaching laboratories in the academic institutions. Hence, formalized safety training must be enforced not just to the students but also to the faculty and nonteaching staff personnel.