Safe Handling of Laboratory Glassware

Safe Handling of Laboratory Glassware Program discusses the nature of various types of glassware, and the problems it can cause… as well as the need for employees to use and maintain laboratory glassware safely. Broken glassware causes more laboratory accidents than any other hazard. Because it is so fragile, glassware can easily fracture if it is bumped, dropped or too much pressure is applied to it. Some glassware accidents don’t require much more than a band-aid, while others can result in a lot of blood and the need for medical attention. And the threat of contamination from the materials in a broken container can also be a serious problem. Areas covered in the program include Inspecting glassware before use, effects of extreme temperatures and pressures, matching glassware to the experiment, working with glass tubing, using personal protective equipment, storage and handling, washing and cleanup, and more. This program is one of 12 in the Laboratory Safety Training Series.