Lab space

We I spent a couple of hours today on a lab. safety course. Actually, it was a good idea and I think Leeds should have something more formal for all laboratory based work and study. At least then everyone would be clear on what procedures should be carried out. I also felt that at Leeds it was difficult to talk about handling hazardous chemicals without people going totally overboard. The impression is somewhat different here. Here you can handle really hazards materials as long as you tell the necessary people and get the relevant personal safety gear. They seem to understand that research often demands the use or undesirable material -BUT you should get approval and make sure you minimise risks.

I look at our lab though and I really do think we need to tighten up. We have HF improperly labeled, people working without safety glasses, goggles, or lab coats (not everyone). Unlabeled bottles. Unknown powders next to the scales, overcrowded work space (bottles of samples everywhere). It could be worse but something should be done to sort it out. I will do something tomorrow I think - trouble is I don't want to upset anyone before settling in. Then again just writing that last sentence makes me think that's a stupid thing to say!