School of Medicine Nephropathology Laboratory: Laboratory Electrical Safety

Title

School of Medicine Nephropathology Laboratory: Laboratory Electrical Safety

Principal

To ensure that all laboratory staff understand the importance of electrical safety related to all equipment used in the Division of Nephropathology Laboratory.  

Policy

Every laboratory on UNC Chapel Hill campus has electrically powered equipment that is used routinely in day-to-day operations. Examples include: stir plates, hot plates, centrifuges, UV lamps, microscopes, microtome, scales, processors, refrigerators, and freezers. This equipment can pose a serious hazard if not properly maintained or improperly used. In addition, an electrical hazard could damage expensive equipment or wipe out years of research.

The major hazards associated with electricity in the laboratory environment are electrical shock or electrical fire. 

All laboratory instruments and appliances should be adequately grounded and checked for current leakage. The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that power cords of portable electrical equipment be visually inspected for external defects.

All workers should be aware of the risks associated with electrically energized equipment and should:

  • Inspect wiring of equipment before each use.
  • Replace all frayed or damaged electrical cords immediately. 
  • Only equipment with three prongs (ground) should be used in the laboratory.
  • Limit the use of extension cords. Use only for temporary operations. In all other cases, request installation of a new electrical outlet.
  • Minimize the potential for water or chemical spills on or near electrical equipment.
  • Ensure that GFCI outlets are installed and used when water is present within 6 feet. 
  • Know the location and how to operate shut-off switches and/or circuit breaker panels. Use these devices to shut off equipment in the event of a fire or electrocution.

Contact Information

If you have further questions about electrical hazards or suspect a potential hazard in your laboratory please contact UNC Environment, Health and Safety (919-962-5507).

History

Created: 10/28/11 LHR

Replaces: N/A

Revisions:

  • 9/25/13 LHR
Print Article