Setting
Laboratory
Explicit laboratory settings.
Documents
- 2024Nov
Risk of exposure of laboratory staff to biological agents due to missing clinical information
This safety notice addresses infection risks in clinical and veterinary diagnostic laboratories when specimen requests lack relevant clinical information. It describes exposures involving Hazard Group 3 agents and calls for better request forms, staff training, sample-processing procedures, linked patient specimens and IT systems that make updated clinical details accessible to laboratory staff.
- 2021
Asbestos - The Analysts' Guide
Guidance for asbestos analysts covering representative bulk and airborne sampling, microscopy, analytical quality assurance and independent four-stage clearance certification. It distinguishes fibre counting from asbestos identification and personal exposure from clearance results. Additional procedures address contaminated soils and made ground, respiratory protection, protective clothing, decontamination and analyst competence.
- 202024 Jul
Hydraulic sample extruder – finger laceration
A laboratory technician injured a finger between a Shelby tube and hydraulic sample extruder ram while stabilising the dolly, resulting in a lost workday case. The flash identifies shortcomings in training, supervision, risk assessment and ergonomic design, and describes revised assessments, improved guarding and controls, and standardisation of equipment.
- 2018Jun
Methodology for the Sampling and Analysis of Produced Water and other Hydrocarbon Discharges
Technical guidance for sampling and analysing produced water and other offshore hydrocarbon discharges. It describes BEIS infrared and Triple Peak methods, the OSPAR GC-FID reference method, sample preservation, calibration and correlation requirements. Separate procedures cover oil on solids, bi-annual component analysis, online monitor validation and environmental reporting.
- 2014
Safe Science: Promoting a Culture of Safety in Academic Chemical Research
This research report examines safety culture in academic chemistry laboratories through incident cases, organisational analysis and experience from other sectors. It addresses leadership, power differences, researcher participation and practical training, recommending integrated hazard analysis, non-punitive reporting and leading indicators rather than reliance on regulatory compliance alone.
- 20119 Dec
Provision of key clinical information on laboratory specimen request forms
This HSE alert addresses incomplete clinical information on specimen request forms and the resulting risk of laboratory infection through inappropriate biological containment. It calls for relevant patient and travel details, prompt communication of new information, linked specimen records, documented completion guidelines, staff training and monitoring of compliance.
- 201119 Oct
Texas Tech University Chemistry Lab Explosion
This case study examines an energetic-material laboratory explosion at Texas Tech University. It analyses synthesis scale-up, mortar-and-pestle handling, eye protection, research-specific training and supervisory oversight. Findings address physical-hazard assessment, written protocols, organisational accountability and missed opportunities to learn from earlier incidents, with recommendations for universities and research funders.
- 2011Mar
OCE17 - Laboratory practice
Guidance for offshore laboratory analysis of chemicals and process fluids sets out exposure controls using fume cupboards, ventilation and protective equipment. It covers sample degassing, segregated waste disposal, extraction checks and statutory testing, alongside housekeeping, skin care, training, supervision and laboratory record retention.
- 2009Aug
Never underestimate the hazard! — Process Safety Beacon, August 2009
A bulletin describes a fatal laboratory fire during transfer of approximately 2 oz. (60 ml) of t-Butyl Lithium, highlighting hazards from small chemical quantities. It stresses training for sampling, appropriate protective clothing and equipment, emergency equipment familiarity, suitable sample containers and carriers, and safe handover to qualified laboratory personnel.
- 2008Nov
Laboratory Refrigerator Explosions – Electrical Classification — Process Safety Beacon, November 2008
This bulletin describes explosions damaging two laboratories where flammable materials were improperly stored in household refrigerators. It explains how accumulated vapours can be ignited by internal electrical components, and emphasises hazardous-area electrical classification, suitable sample storage, appropriate portable equipment and inspection and maintenance of electrical installations.
- 197926 Dec
Safety Alert 92 - Testing of Subsurface Safety Valves
This alert describes occasional laboratory test failures of two sizes of tubing-retrievable, surface-controlled subsurface safety valves for high-flow-rate gas wells. Accumulated manufacturing tolerances caused internal parts to grab. It records tightened manufacturer specifications and case-by-case well reviews, and highlights the advisability of additional laboratory testing to verify operation against design.
- Undated
Failure of lifeboat winch on ro-ro passenger ferry P&OSL Calais and behaviour of self-lifting sprag clutch
Investigates involuntary lowering of a lifeboat on P&OSL Calais and related self-lifting sprag clutch failures. Shipboard measurements and laboratory rig tests examine deceleration, lubricant grade and oil level. Incorrect lubricant was the probable cause of the Calais failure, with ambiguous maintenance instructions contributing. The report discusses similar incidents and vessel-specific lubrication instructions.
- Undated
Safe Science: Guide for Laboratory Researchers
This pamphlet outlines researchers’ role in strengthening safety culture in academic laboratories. It recommends experimental hazard analysis recorded in lab notebooks, open safety discussions, participatory inspections and non-punitive reporting of near misses and injuries. It also addresses productivity pressures, lone working, inadequate sleep and seeking support when stress compromises safe work.
- Undated
Safe Science: Guide for University Senior Leaders
This pamphlet outlines how senior university leaders can strengthen laboratory safety culture through visible commitment, adequate resources and institutional policies. It recommends aligning research ambitions with safety capacity, recognising safety in faculty advancement, clarifying responsibilities and prioritising safe laboratory design. It also addresses hazardous chemicals beyond chemistry departments and comprehensive risk management.
- Undated
Seadrill - West Phoenix - Investigation into fire
This investigation examines a fire during drilling-fluid retort testing in West Phoenix’s mud laboratory. Serial arcing in an extension cord was considered the probable ignition source. Findings address cord suitability, missing retort overheating protection, combustible cabinet cladding and equipment checks. Emergency response worked well; damage remained within the laboratory and nobody was injured.