Introduction: Why Lab Safety Equipment Is Essential
A laboratory is a place of discovery and innovation—but it’s also home to a range of hazards. From chemical spills to open flames, the risks are real and ever-present. That’s why having the right lab safety equipment is not just recommended—it’s essential. This guide covers the must-have laboratory safety tools and provides a practical lab safety gear checklist to help you maintain a safe, compliant, and productive lab environment.
For a complete overview of all essential laboratory equipment, see our Essential Lab Equipment Guide.
When setting up your lab, the layout and placement of safety equipment play a crucial role in overall safety and workflow. Get expert tips in our guide to efficient laboratory layout design.
Why Safety Equipment in Laboratories Matters
Every year, laboratory workers face injuries from chemical splashes, fires, sharp objects, and more. Proper safety equipment in laboratories acts as the first line of defense, protecting personnel from harm and minimizing costly accidents. Whether you’re setting up a new lab or reviewing your current setup, understanding the essential lab equipment is the key to preventing incidents and ensuring everyone’s well-being.
Budgeting appropriately for safety tools and other essentials is a vital part of lab planning. For a detailed breakdown, check out our post on startup lab budget and costs.
List of Laboratory Safety Equipment: Must-Have Lab Safety Tools
Below is a comprehensive list of essential safety equipment for laboratories. Each item plays a critical role in protecting lab personnel and supporting safe scientific work.
1. Safety Goggles/Glasses
Why they matter: Eyes are particularly vulnerable to chemical splashes, flying debris, and broken glass.
Best practices: Choose safety goggles that meet ANSI Z87.1 standards and offer side protection. Always wear them when handling chemicals or working near hazardous processes.
2. Lab Coats
Why they matter: Lab coats provide a removable barrier between hazardous substances and your skin or clothing.
Best practices: Opt for flame-retardant, long-sleeved lab coats. Remove immediately if contaminated.
3. Protective Gloves
Why they matter: Hands are the most likely body part to come into contact with chemicals, biological agents, or heat.
Best practices: Use the correct glove type for the task—nitrile, latex, or heat-resistant gloves. Replace gloves regularly and never reuse disposables.
4. Eyewash Station in Lab
Why it matters: Accidents happen, and when hazardous substances get into the eyes, immediate flushing is critical.
Best practices: Install eyewash stations in accessible locations. Test regularly to ensure proper function.
5. Safety Shower
Why it matters: In the event of a large chemical spill on the body, a safety shower provides rapid decontamination.
Best practices: Keep the area around safety showers clear and ensure all staff know their location and operation.
6. Fire Extinguisher in Lab
Why it matters: Fires can start quickly in labs due to open flames, electrical equipment, or flammable chemicals.
Best practices: Stock the correct type of fire extinguisher (Class A, B, C, or D) for your hazards. Train all personnel in proper use.
7. Fire Blanket
Why it matters: Fire blankets are used to smother small fires or wrap around a person whose clothing has caught fire.
Best practices: Place fire blankets in easily accessible, clearly marked locations.
8. Chemical Fume Hood
Why it matters: Fume hoods prevent exposure to toxic fumes, vapors, and dust, protecting both workers and the lab environment.
Best practices: Use fume hoods for all procedures involving volatile substances. Keep the sash at the recommended height and never use the hood for storage.
If you’re interested in specialized air purification, explore our range of HEPA air purification systems designed to keep your lab environment safe and compliant.
9. First Aid Kit
Why it matters: Minor injuries like cuts and burns are common in labs. A well-stocked first aid kit allows for immediate treatment and can prevent complications.
Best practices: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, burn cream, eye pads, and gloves. Check contents regularly and restock as needed.
10. Chemical Spill Kit
Why it matters: Spills of hazardous chemicals require prompt, effective cleanup to prevent injury and contamination.
Best practices: Store spill kits in a visible location. Include absorbent materials, neutralizers, PPE, and disposal bags. Train staff on proper use.
11. Safety Storage Cabinets
Why they matter: Proper storage of flammable, corrosive, or toxic chemicals reduces the risk of spills, fires, and unauthorized access.
Best practices: Use cabinets specifically rated for the type of material stored. Label clearly and keep inventory up to date.
For guidance on selecting the right lab furniture and storage solutions, visit our lab furniture and workstation guide.
12. Additional Lab Safety Essentials
Depending on your lab’s focus, consider these as well:
- Disposable Masks/Respirators: For protection against airborne particles or infectious agents.
- Biosafety cabinets: For handling biological hazards and protecting both personnel and samples from contamination.
- Laboratory-safe refrigerators and freezers: For safe storage of flammable liquids, chemicals, or temperature-sensitive samples. Explore our full lab cold storage solutions for more options.
- Autoclaves and sterilizers: Essential for decontaminating lab equipment and waste, helping prevent biological hazards.
If you’re equipping a smaller space, check out our small lab equipment checklist for compact and cost-effective solutions.
Best Practices for Using and Maintaining Laboratory Safety Tools
Having the right types of lab safety equipment is only half the equation. To maximize protection:
- Provide regular training on the correct use of all lab safety essentials and PPE for lab workers.
For teaching and training labs, see our teaching laboratory design and equipment guide. - Inspect and maintain equipment routinely.
- Ensure all safety tools are accessible and clearly labeled.
- Keep emergency exits and equipment unobstructed at all times.
As your lab grows, your safety needs may change. For advice on scaling up safely, check out lab expansion and scale-up.
Lab Safety Gear Checklist
Use this checklist to review your lab’s safety readiness:
- Safety goggles/glasses
- Lab coats
- Protective gloves
- Eyewash station
- Safety shower
- Fire extinguisher
- Fire blanket
- Chemical fume hood
- First aid kit
- Chemical spill kit
- Safety storage cabinets
- Disposable masks/respirators (if needed)
- Biosafety cabinets (if needed)
- Laboratory-safe refrigerators (if needed)
Additional Lab Safety Tips
- Maintain good personal hygiene: wash hands before and after lab work.
- Never eat or drink in the lab.
- Label all chemicals and equipment clearly.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Know your emergency procedures and exit routes.
For guidance on meeting your lab’s infrastructure needs, see our article on laboratory utility requirements.
Don’t overlook the less obvious expenses—learn about hidden lab setup costs to avoid surprises.
If you’re planning a renovation or new build, our lab build-out contractor selection guide can help you choose the right partner.
By equipping your lab with these lab safety essentials and following best practices, you create a safer environment for everyone. Make safety a daily priority—review your list of laboratory safety equipment regularly and keep your team trained and prepared.
For a comprehensive selection of laboratory tools and safety products, browse our complete lab equipment collection.