General Lab Safety
Lab bench paper is used on campus to absorb liquids spilled or drained from lab equipment. The proper use of lab bench paper is necessary to maintain a safe work environment. The misuse of lab bench paper may compromise the safety of the work environment and endanger personnel.
The following incorrect practices have been observed on campus:
- Setting up lab bench paper with the non-absorbent side facing up
- Using lab bench paper as a substitute for routine decontamination of lab benches
- Neglecting to replace lab bench paper on a routine basis, especially if it has been contaminated with hazardous materials
- Neglecting to use any tape to set up lab bench paper
The following practices should be implemented when using lab bench paper:
- Set up lab bench paper with the absorbent side facing up
- Change lab bench paper on a routine basis
- Always change lab bench paper immediately after a spill or contamination
- Secure lab bench paper with tape (radioactive hazard tape may be used if radioactive materials are present)
Lab bench paper is not a permanent lab bench cover. In addition to following the correct practices for using lab bench paper, always remember to decontaminate lab benches on a routine basis.
If you have questions about disposing of lab bench paper which has been contaminated or exposed to hazardous materials, please contact the Division of Research Safety.
