Safety Hazards
Employers must assess tasks to identify potential worksite hazards and provide and ensure that workers use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as stated in the PPE standard, 29 CFR 1910.132.
Employers must require workers to use appropriate hand protection when hands are exposed to hazards such as sharp instruments and potential thermal burns. Examples of PPE which may be selected include using oven mitts when handling hot items and steel mesh or cut-resistant gloves when handling or sorting sharp instruments as stated in the Hand Protection Standard, 29 CFR 1910.138.
Autoclaves and Sterilizers
An autoclave is used in laboratories to sterilize equipment and supplies. They pose several hazards to laboratory workers, including:
- Burns from pressurized heat and steam. When opening the door, be sure to keep face, body and hands away from escaping heat and steam.
- Explosions if the door seals fail during operation. Pressure and heat in the autoclave's chamber can escape causing serious injury.
- Ergonomic lifting injuries when moving equipment. Get help when moving heavy equipment.
- When handling or sorting hot sterilized items or sharp instruments, cuts can occur. Be sure to be careful when removing them from autoclaves or sterilizers.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
9-1. Keep your face, body and hands away from escaping heat and steam when opening the door of a/an _____.
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