Laboratory Attire
Last Reviewed: August 22, 2022
Proper attire is required at all times. Students who do not meet the requirements set out below will not be allowed to work in lab until they are properly dressed.
Anyone working in lab must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times while in the laboratory, which must include departmental approved eye protection. The Department recognizes that well-fitted safety goggles that are indirectly-vented and rated as both chemical-splash resistant and impact-resistant (meet the ANSI Z87.1-2015+D3 standard) provide optimal protection against hazards encountered in chemistry labs. Safety glasses that meet the impact-resistance standard (ANSI Z87.1-2015) may also be worn in the laboratory, however these offer decreased splash protection when compared to goggles.
In advanced laboratories, and in research the additional protection of a face shield may be required. Consult with your instructor or research supervisor about whether this additional protection is necessary.
Proper attire also includes non-baggy pants that cover the entire leg (capris and yoga pants are not acceptable), socks, low shoes that cover the entire foot (clogs, high-heels and any shoes with holes in the top, sides or back are unacceptable) and a shirt that provides complete torso coverage equivalent to a T-shirt under all motions of the wearer. Under no circumstances are shorts, baggy shirts or pants, sandals or shirts that expose any part of the shoulder or torso to be worn in lab. Skirts may be worn in lab, but they must be ankle-length. Students who wear skirts must not wear tights or pantyhose. To determine whether your clothing is appropriate, stand in front of a mirror and lift your hands above your head. If any skin shows between your shoulders and your ankles, you are not dressed adequately for laboratory.
Lab coats and aprons provide extra coverage, which is not usually needed in introductory classes. Students in advanced classes, or who are engaged in research, may wish to invest in these optional pieces of safety equipment.
Gloves are not required for most of the introductory laboratories, but they may be available for your use, if you wish. In advanced laboratories and research, it is recommended that you wear gloves, but be aware that different types of gloves offer different levels of protection against different chemical and biological agents. Be sure that you know which glove is appropriate. Consult your instructor or research advisor, if you have questions.
Long hair (long enough to touch the shoulder) is to be tied back.
It is recommended that all rings, watches, etc. be removed.