Working safely in the laboratory Lab safety
Laboratories are not only places of creative research, they also harbour an increased risk of accidents:
How do I handle hazardous substances? What is the right glove? What belongs in the work safety folder?
Laboratories are workspaces in which specialists or trained persons carry out experiments to investigate or utilise scientific processes. They are primarily associated with chemical, physical and/or biological research activities, whereas speech or sleep laboratories, for example, are not.
The following information contains regulations and guidance for activities in "real" laboratories. The following applies in principle:
Only protect yourself from hazards that can actually occur and not because it is written in some rule!
Active safety instruments (to be customised)
Laser
Lasers are classified according to their hazard potential. From laser class 2, the laser class must be labelled on the device. An important component of laser protection is the laser safety officer. The appointment of a laser safety officer is required by law for the operation of class 3 and 4 lasers.
Passive safety instruments
Legislation and rules of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) on lab safety
- Ordinance on Hazardous Substances (GefStoffV)
- Technical Rule for Hazardous Substances "LABORATORIES" (TRGS 526)
- DGUV information "Safe working in laboratories" (DGUV-I 213-850)
- DGUV information "Safety and health in chemical university internships - basic knowledge for students" (DGUV I 213-026)
For information on the laboratory standards of Heidelberg University, please contact us by email.