Safety Talk : Laboratory Floods Sajal Sen

Happened to our lab 2 years ago, “Someone” flooded one part of NHB 5 Happened to our lab 2 years ago, “Someone” flooded one part of NHB 5.340 C! Flooded areas can be hazardous for reasons.  Potential hazards include : Electrical shock. Harmful chemical exposure. Tripping hazards. Mud or other contaminants can make walking surfaces slippery. In the worst case, chemical explosion. Happened at a chemical plant in Crosby, Texas (2017). Probable Reasons: Heavy rainfall or catastrophe like Hurricane Katrina or Harvey. Frozen plumbing. Broken water pipes. Water hoses from reflux condenser. (Most of the cases!)

Ways to avoid it : Water pressure for your condenser must be kept low. In case of an overnight reaction, even lower the water pressure. Make sure the hoses fit well with the condenser outlets. Always use metal clips to ensure those hoses are properly attached.

What should be done if happens : Whoever sees it first, should locate the source and if possible turn off the valve. Notify the person whom the hood belongs to, lab safety officer, building management and Dr. Sessler as soon as possible. Safeguard priority items as much as possible. Beware of potential chemical hazard. Don’t touch anything without gloves! All the electrical instruments should be disconnected in the wet area, should be reassessed to verify if they are in working order.