Laboratory Safety
Laboratory safety is a top priority at Al-Qadisiyah University; the Quality Assurance Department promotes a culture of safety across every laboratory and monitors its implementation.
Principal Standards
Personal Safety
- Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) — lab coat, safety glasses, gloves
- Knowing the location of safety equipment (fire extinguisher, safety shower, eyewash)
- No food or drink inside the laboratory
- Tying back long hair and wearing closed-toe shoes
Handling Chemicals
- Reading safety data sheets (SDS) before working
- Proper storage of chemicals
- Using a fume hood when working with volatile substances
- Segregating incompatible materials
Electrical Safety
- Inspecting equipment before use
- Not using damaged equipment
- Disconnecting from the power source after use
- Avoiding overloading outlets
Biosafety
- Operating at the biosafety level appropriate to the laboratory
- Mandatory vaccinations for relevant staff
- Safe disposal of biohazardous waste
- Sterilizing surfaces and tools
Waste Management
- Segregating waste by type (chemical, biological, sharps, infectious)
- Using dedicated containers
- Coordinating with safe-disposal contractors
- Documenting disposal operations
In Emergencies
Fire
- Switch off electrical equipment
- Use the appropriate fire extinguisher
- Evacuate toward the nearest emergency exit
- Call emergency services
Chemical Spills
- Evacuate the area
- Notify the laboratory supervisor
- Use protective equipment and follow clean-up procedures
- Document the incident
Injuries
- Use the first-aid kit
- Transfer the injured person to medical emergency services if needed
- Report immediately and document
Training
The department offers periodic training workshops for laboratory staff on safety procedures, in cooperation with the colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy and Engineering.