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Laboratory Dress Code

Proper Lab Attire Poster

Laboratories and shops at SCU are categorized into 3 hazard levels – LOW hazard, HIGH-DRY hazard, and HIGH-WET hazard. The hazard level for a laboratory is determined based on the highest activities, materials, and/or equipment in that laboratory.

 

Lab Hazard Classification

Definition

Minimum Lab Attire and PPE Requirements

Low Hazard

Lack of hazardous processes, materials, equipment, or machinery in the lab

  • Faculty/Instructor discretion 

High-Dry Hazard

Labs with physical, mechanical, and electrical hazards (e.g. temperature, pressure, radiation, moving parts, vibration, noise, etc.)          

    Examples:

  • Laser labs
  • Machine shops & Maker spaces
  • Some electrical labs
  • Materials labs
  • Structures labs

  • None/minimal wet activities
  • Long pants and closed-toe shoes
  • Safety glasses
  • Special PPE may be required for certain labs or activities (eg. laser goggles, welding jacket)
  • Additional safety protocols - no lanyards or loose clothing; long hair tied back, etc. 

High-Wet Hazard

Labs with:

  • Hazardous chemicals
  • Biological materials - BSL 2 (and some BSL 1) labs
  • Radiological materials
  • Long pants and closed-toe shoes
  • Safety glasses or goggles
  • Lab Coat
  • Additional special PPE may be required for certain activities (eg. cryo gloves, goggles, face shield)


Please contact EHS if there are any questions or concerns about the assessed hazard level of the lab.