Laboratory First aid (accidents)

Dr. Arvind Kumar

Introduction

  • Accidents in a medical or biochemical laboratory can occur at any time due to chemicals, glassware, heat sources, or electrical equipment.
  • Every laboratory must be prepared with first aid materials, trained personnel, and emergency procedures to handle injuries promptly and effectively.
  • The goal of first aid is to reduce the severity of injury, prevent infection, and save life until professional medical help is available.

Common Causes of Laboratory Accidents

  • Carelessness or lack of concentration while performing experiments.

  • Improper handling of chemicals, acids, or glassware.

  • Electrical short circuits or equipment malfunction.

  • Fire or explosion due to flammable materials.

  • Inhalation of toxic fumes or gases.

  • Slipping on wet floors or broken glass.

 

Essential Laboratory First Aid Equipment

Every laboratory must have:

  • A first aid box with antiseptic lotion, cotton, bandages, burn ointment, and pain relievers.

  • Eye wash station and safety shower for chemical splashes.

  • Fire extinguisher (CO₂ or dry chemical type).

  • Blanket or fire-proof sheet for smothering flames on clothing.

  • Emergency contact numbers displayed clearly.

 

Types of Laboratory Accidents and Their First Aid Measures

A. Chemical Burns (Acids and Alkalis)

  • Immediately flush the affected area with large amounts of running water for at least 15–20 minutes.

  • Remove contaminated clothing carefully.

  • If the burn is due to acid, after washing, apply a mild alkaline solution (e.g., 1% sodium bicarbonate).

  • If the burn is due to alkali, apply a mild acidic solution (e.g., 1% acetic acid or boric acid).

  • Apply sterile dressing; do not apply ointments on deep burns.

  • Seek medical attention immediately.

B. Thermal Burns (Heat or Fire)

  • Cool the affected area with cold running water or ice packs for several minutes.

  • Do not break blisters or remove burnt clothing stuck to the skin.

  • Cover with a sterile non-adhesive dressing or clean cloth.

  • For severe burns, call emergency services immediately.

C. Cuts and Wounds from Glassware

  • Allow slight bleeding to flush out contaminants if the cut is minor.

  • Wash with clean running water.

  • Apply antiseptic solution (e.g., povidone-iodine).

  • Cover with sterile gauze or bandage.

  • If the wound is deep or glass remains embedded, do not attempt removal — seek medical help immediately.

D. Eye Injuries

  • Chemical splash in eyes:

    • Rinse eyes immediately at the eye wash station for at least 15 minutes, keeping eyelids open.

    • Avoid rubbing eyes.

    • Seek ophthalmologic treatment immediately.

  • Foreign body in eye:

    • Do not rub or attempt to remove it with fingers.

    • Blink several times to help dislodge it or rinse gently with clean water.

    • If pain persists, seek medical help.

E. Inhalation of Toxic Fumes or Gases

  • Immediately move the person to fresh air.

  • Loosen tight clothing around neck and chest.

  • If breathing is difficult, provide oxygen support if available.

  • Keep the person warm and calm.

  • Call for medical assistance immediately.

  • Prevent further exposure by ventilating the lab and stopping the gas leak.

F. Ingestion of Chemicals:

  • Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.

  • Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.

  • Identify the chemical ingested and provide its safety data sheet (SDS) to the healthcare provider.

  • Take the person to the nearest hospital immediately.

G. Electrical Shock

  • Turn off the power supply immediately before touching the victim.

  • If unable to switch off, use a dry wooden stick or rubber-handled object to separate the victim from the electrical source.

  • Check for breathing and pulse; if absent, start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).

  • Treat visible burns as per burn protocol.

  • Seek emergency medical help without delay.

H. Fire Accidents

  • Raise the alarm and switch off all electrical devices and gas sources.

  • For small fires, use a CO₂ or dry chemical fire extinguisher.

  • For clothing fires, make the victim stop, drop, and roll, or wrap in a fire blanket to smother flames.

  • Never use water on chemical or electrical fires.

  • Evacuate the laboratory if the fire is uncontrollable.

I. Mercury Spill or Toxic Substance Spill

  • Evacuate the area and prevent spread of vapors.

  • Do not touch mercury with bare hands.

  • Use a mercury spill kit or damp paper to collect droplets and store in a sealed container.

  • Ventilate the room and call trained safety personnel for disposal.

J. Fainting or Shock

  • Lay the person flat, with legs elevated slightly.

  • Loosen tight clothing and ensure proper ventilation.

  • Do not give food or drink until fully conscious.

  • If the person does not regain consciousness, seek immediate medical care.

 

General Rules for Accident Prevention

  • Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE): lab coat, gloves, goggles, and closed shoes.

  • Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in the lab.

  • Label all chemicals properly and store them safely.

  • Use fume hoods when working with volatile or toxic substances.

  • Know the location of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits.

  • Report all accidents and near-miss incidents to the lab supervisor immediately.

 

Emergency Reporting Procedure

Step 1 – Immediate Response:

  • Ensure personal safety first — turn off electrical supply, remove sources of flame, and evacuate if needed.

  • Provide first aid to the injured person using the laboratory’s first aid kit.

  • If the accident is severe, immediately contact emergency medical services and inform the supervisor.

Step 2 – Notify Authorized Personnel:

  • Report the incident to the laboratory supervisor or safety officer without delay.

  • Provide clear information:

    • Nature of the accident (chemical spill, fire, injury, electrical shock, etc.)

    • Number of persons involved

    • Type of injury or exposure

    • Location of the accident (lab number, floor, building)

Step 3 – Contact External Emergency Services:

  • If internal control is not possible, contact fire, ambulance, or hospital services as per emergency protocol.

  • Ensure clear access routes for emergency responders.

Step 4 – Secure the Area:

  • Evacuate all non-essential personnel.

  • Close laboratory doors and isolate the area if hazardous gases, fires, or spills are involved.

Step 5 – Follow-Up Actions:

    • The injured person must be taken to the hospital or occupational health center for further care.

    • All samples or equipment involved should be safely handled or sealed for investigation.

Incident Reporting (Documentation)

Every laboratory must maintain an Incident or Accident Report Register that records all details for safety monitoring and prevention of recurrence.
Each report should include:

    • Date and time of the incident

    • Names of persons involved or injured

    • Description of the accident (what happened, where, and how)

    • Immediate actions taken (first aid, evacuation, etc.)

    • Names of persons notified (supervisor, safety officer, etc.)

    • Recommendations to prevent future occurrences

    • Signature of the reporter and supervisor

 

Display and Awareness

  • Emergency contacts and procedures must be displayed prominently at:

    • Laboratory entrance

    • Near the first-aid box

    • Chemical storage and fume hood areas

    • Equipment rooms and corridors

  • All staff and students should be trained during induction or safety orientation.