Assignment No.

1
Health & Safety Hazards in Thermodynamics Lab
1.1 Introduction:
Laboratories serve as hubs of scientific discovery, innovation, and
experimentation. However, within these controlled environments, researchers and technicians often
encounter various health and safety hazards that must be carefully managed to ensure the well-being
of all individuals and the integrity of research. Understanding and addressing these hazards is
paramount to creating a safe and productive laboratory setting. Health and safety hazards in
laboratories can encompass a wide range of risks, from exposure to hazardous chemicals and biological
agents to the potential for physical injuries, fires, and emergencies. These hazards can vary depending
on the type of lab work being conducted, making it essential for laboratory personnel to be vigilant,
well-informed, and properly trained in safety protocols. In this context, this discussion will delve into
the common health and safety hazards that laboratories may present and the precautions that can be
taken to mitigate these risks. By recognizing these hazards and implementing appropriate safety
measures, laboratories can maintain a culture of safety that promotes both scientific advancement and
the well-being of those who work within them.

Figure 1.1 Health and Safety Hazards

1.2 General Safety Rules:
 Use of cell phones, IPODs is not allowed in the Lab.
 Eating /drinking is not allowed in the lab.
 Wear close, non-slippery shoes in the lab.
 Before performing the experiment, go through the procedure to develop thorough
understanding of the work.
 Stay in assigned section during the lab period.
 Do not alter the lab set-up. Ask your instructor if something is missing or out of place.
 Use equipment with care for the purpose for which it is intended.
 Report malfunction of equipment to your instructor. Do not fix by yourself.
 Ask lab engineer if anything is unclear.
 Don’t rush/run in the Lab.
 Keep work areas and apparatus neat and clean.
 Do not apply excessive force on any equipment. Consult lab engineer, if it is required.
 Always heed safety symbols and cautions written in the experimental investigations and
handouts, posted in the room, and given verbally by your teacher.
 Return all equipment in good condition at the end of the lab period.
 Report any short circuit, burning smell, to lab engineer immediately.
 In case of emergency/fire follow the instructions of lab engineers and do not panic.

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1.3 Types of Safety Hazards:
 Chemical Hazards
 Fire Hazards
 Biological Hazards
 Ergonomic Hazards
 Radiological Hazards
 Electrical Hazards
 Noise Hazards
 Mechanical Hazards
 Thermal Hazards
1.3.1 Chemical Hazards:
One of the most common hazards in laboratories is the risk of chemical
exposure. This can include exposure to toxic chemicals, corrosive materials, and flammable liquids.
To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as
gloves, goggles, and lab coats, and to properly label and store chemicals.

Figure 1.2 Chemical Hazards

1.3.2 Fire Hazards:
Laboratories can also pose a risk of fire due to the presence of flammable
materials and equipment. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to keep lab areas clean and free of
clutter, properly store flammable materials, and have a fire extinguisher readily available.

Figure 1.3 Fire Hazards

1.3.3 Biological Hazards:
Laboratories that handle biological materials, such as bacteria or viruses, also pose a risk of infection
or exposure. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to use appropriate PPE, such as gloves and masks,
and to properly decontaminate lab areas.

Figure 1.4 Biological Hazards

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1.3.4 Ergonomic Hazards:
Laboratories can also pose a risk of ergonomic hazards, such as
repetitive motion injuries or back strains. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to take frequent breaks,
use proper posture, and use ergonomic equipment.

Figure 1.5 Ergonomic Hazards

1.3.5 Radiological Hazards:
Laboratories that use radioactive materials also pose a risk of
radiation exposure. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to use appropriate PPE, such as dosimeters
and lead aprons, and to follow proper radiation safety protocols.

Figure 1.6 Radiological Hazards

1.3.6 Electrical Hazards:
Labs also have a risk of electrical hazards, such as electrical shocks or
fires. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to use properly grounded electrical equipment, avoid
overloading circuits, and ensure that all electrical equipment is in good working condition.

Figure 1.7 Electrical Hazard

1.3.7 Noise Hazards:
Labs also have a risk of noise hazards, such as hearing loss due to the use of
machinery, power tools, and other equipment. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to wear ear
protection, and limit exposure to loud noises.

Figure 1.8 Noise Hazards

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1.3.8 Mechanical Hazards:
Labs also have a risk of mechanical hazards, such as injuries from
equipment or machinery. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to properly maintain equipment and
machinery, and ensure that workers are properly trained on their use.

Figure 1.9 Mechanical Hazards

1.3.9 Thermal Hazards:
Labs also have a risk of thermal hazards; such as burns or other injuries
from exposure to extreme temperatures. To mitigate this hazard, it’s important to wear appropriate
PPE, such as heat-resistant clothing, and to properly monitor and control the temperature in the lab.

Figure 1.10 Thermal Hazards

1.4 Precautions to prevent Health and Safety Hazards:
Know the Hazards:
 Be aware of surroundings. Look around and identify workplace hazards that could cause harm.
 Look for ways to reduce or eliminate hazards, and implement them.
 Report unsafe areas or practices.
 Dress for the weather.
Create a Safe Work Area:
 Keep an orderly workplace. Poor housekeeping can cause serious health and safety hazards.
The layout of the workplace should have adequate egress routes and be free of debris.
 Inspect vehicles before and after use. DRIVE SAFELY.
 Continually cultivate a safety standard.
 Take breaks and move around regularly throughout the day. Small breaks (standing up and
moving around) can make a big difference in combating the dangers of staying in a static
position all day long.
 Pay attention to workstation ergonomics.
Use Safe Lifting Techniques:
Follow the following safe lifting practices:
 Lift from a position of power
 Keep the load close

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  Use a staggered stance
 Don’t twist while lifting
 Training in body mechanics can reduce strain injuries and keep employees safe during lifting
and moving.
Personal Protective Equipment:
The proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can
dramatically reduce the risk of injury. Examples of PPE include gear such as earplugs, hard hats, safety
goggles, gloves, air-purifying respirators and safety shoes.
Regular Communication:
 Notify supervisors about safety hazards.
 Speak up and be involved in safety planning.
 Continually cultivate a safety standard.
Education and Training:
 Ensure everyone has the proper safety training relating to the hazards of the job.
 Take advantage of Environmental Health and Safety online training programs.

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 Thermo-1 Lab
Title: Health & Safety Hazards in Thermodynamics Lab

Submitted To: Sir Waleed Ahmad

Submitted By: Naveed (22-MCE-39)

Registration No: 2022-UET-NFC-FD-ME-39

Department: Mechanical Engineering

NFC Institute of Engineering and Fertilizer Research

Faisalabad

22-MEC-39