Lab Safety
Department of Chemical Engineering, IITH
General Autoclave Safety
Do not operate an autoclave until you have been trained on how to do so safely.
An autoclave uses hot, pressurized steam to render items sterile. Hazards include heat, steam, and pressure.
PPE & Preparation
- Always use lab coat, heat-resistant gloves, and safety goggles.
- Ensure arms are covered to prevent steam burns.
- Inspect door gasket (seal) for cracks/bulges.
- Check water level (use deionized water only).
- Never autoclave flammables, reactives, or toxics.
- Check plastics compatibility (e.g., Polypropylene).
- Loosen caps on liquids to prevent explosion.
Loading & Operating
- Place items in a tub on a rack; never directly on the floor.
- Do not overload; allow space for steam.
- Select appropriate cycle (Dry heat vs Biohazardous waste).
- Do not open door during a cycle.
- If cycle fails, notify responsible person.
- Record run in the log book.
| Sterilizer Purpose | Temperature | Pressure | Time (mins) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sterilization | 121°C | 15 psi | 20 |
| Biomedical Waste (Type 1) | 121°C | 15 psi | 60 |
| Biomedical Waste (Type 2) | 135°C | 31 psi | 45 |
| Biomedical Waste (Type 3) | 149°C | 52 psi | 30 |
Unloading: Verify pressure is zero. Stand back and open door slowly to let steam escape. Allow items to stand for 10 minutes. Do not agitate superheated liquids.
Lab Checklist & Good Practices
Mandatory Checklist for Every Lab:
1. MSDS available for all chemicals.
2. Chemicals grouped/stored properly (secondary containers).
3. SOPs and Risk Assessments in place.
4. Users certified by Dept Safety Cell.
5. Proper PPE usage (Chemical/Bio).
6. Sharps bin, Needle bin, and Liquid/Solid waste bins present.
7. No disposal down the drain.
8. No Eating/Drinking.
9. Emergency Contact (FIC + 1 Student) pasted on door.
10. IBSC and IEC certificates in place.
11. First Aid Kit available (Burn/Cut meds).
12. Add ACID to WATER, slowly. (Never water to acid).
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Emergency Contacts
Health Center:101
Fire Station (Sangareddy):
08455 241877
99637 48770
Fire Station (Patancheru):
08455 242099
095810 12077