Lab Safety Starts Before the Experiment

On December 29, 2008, a tragic and entirely preventable laboratory accident shocked the American academic community. Sheharbano “Sheri” Sangji, a research assistant at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), was transferring a highly flammable liquid when the chemical caught fire due to improper equipment use and her failure to wear appropriate personal protective equipment. She suffered severe burns and sadly passed away 18 days later. This incident not only sparked widespread concern over lab safety but also marked the first time in U.S. history that criminal charges were filed against an academic supervisor for a lab accident. The case serves as a powerful reminder: whether in schools, research institutions, or corporate labs, safety is never something that can be postponed.

Identifying Hidden Risks — What ANR Observes in Real Lab Environments

In our continued work supporting both research and industrial laboratories, the ANR team has identified several recurring safety hazards that are often underestimated but pose significant risks if left unaddressed:

Improper Equipment Operation and Lack of Preventive Maintenance

A significant number of laboratory-related injuries stem from improper use of mechanical equipment, absence of protective barriers, or aging machinery with underlying electrical faults. These hazards are particularly concentrated in high-risk environments such as mechanical labs, high-temperature processing zones, and electrical testing areas, where equipment operates at high speeds, voltages, or temperatures.

Electrical System Hazards

Labs that lack real-time monitoring and power stabilization systems are particularly vulnerable to sudden outages. Such interruptions can critically damage temperature-sensitive devices or cause dangerous collisions in active mechanical setups. Moreover, after facility expansions or equipment upgrades, we often find electrical systems that have not been updated accordingly. Common issues include daisy-chained power strips, tangled wiring, and overloaded circuits—all of which significantly increase the risk of short circuits, equipment failure, or even electrical fires.

Improper Chemical Storage

We routinely encounter labs that fail to properly classify, label, and separate hazardous chemicals. Flammable materials, strong oxidizers, and corrosives are often stored together under uncontrolled humidity or without proper signage. These oversights can lead to violent chemical reactions, fires, or explosions under the wrong conditions.

Risks from Unqualified Third-Party Service Providers

In an attempt to save time or cut costs, some clients opt to hire non-specialized third-party moving companies to relocate large laboratory equipment. These service providers often lack the expertise and technical training required for handling sensitive lab environments. As a result, we’ve witnessed incidents involving dented enclosures, misaligned internal components, and, in extreme cases, complete equipment failure. More alarmingly, the lack of safety protocols and protective measures has also led to physical injuries—such as crushed feet—during equipment drops. These avoidable incidents underscore the importance of selecting vendors who are properly certified in lab equipment handling and relocation.

How ANR Delivers Safety Assurance in the Laboratory

Standardized Equipment Operation

To minimize risks from improper equipment use, labs should establish clear operating procedures and enforce regular maintenance. After installation and setup, ANR provides hands-on training to ensure users operate equipment safely and correctly. For high-risk machines, we recommend restricting access to trained and authorized personnel only.
For older equipment, ANR assists in identifying issues like wear, malfunctions, or missing safety features. We also advise posting clear SOPs beside each device to support consistent and safe operation. With proper training and upkeep, labs can extend equipment lifespan and reduce human-related safety incidents.

Electrical Safety

Electrical systems are the backbone of any laboratory, but they can also pose serious risks if not properly managed. Common issues include overloaded power strips, tangled wiring, outdated or uninspected circuits, and makeshift electrical connections—especially in labs that have undergone rapid expansion or equipment upgrades. To ensure electrical safety, it’s essential to:

1. Regularly inspect and maintain wiring and power outlets
2. Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords or overloading circuits
3. Ensure all electrical work is performed by qualified personnel
4. Clearly label circuits and emergency shut-offs

Maintaining a clean, organized, and up-to-date electrical layout not only protects your equipment but also prevents potential hazards such as short circuits, electric shocks, or even fires.

Ensuring Chemical Safety Starts at the Source

Chemical safety starts before any experiment begins. ANR provides pre-delivery inspections to help clients review and label hazardous substances like flammables, oxidizers, and corrosives. We recommend storing chemicals by type and reactivity to prevent dangerous reactions.

For storage, we advise using temperature- and humidity-controlled areas, explosion-proof cabinets, and proper ventilation. Clear labeling and updated MSDS sheets are essential. Beyond infrastructure, we stress the importance of regular training. Even small improvements in procedures and awareness can significantly reduce chemical risks in the lab.

Choosing the Right Service Providers

Relocating or installing laboratory equipment is a highly specialized task that requires far more than basic moving experience. We’ve seen firsthand how hiring unqualified third-party movers can lead to serious consequences. ANR helps you avoid these risks by providing experienced, lab-qualified teams equipped with standardized safety protocols and the right tools to handle sensitive equipment—ensuring a smooth and safe process while preventing costly damage or delays.

Top 10 Laboratory Safety Rules

To help foster strong safety habits among researchers, ANR displaying the following Top 10 Laboratory Safety Rules prominently in every lab:

1. Wear goggles, gloves, and a lab coat. Tie back long hair. Don’t touch your face.
2. Never work alone. Always have permission or supervision when performing experiments.
3. Learn where safety gear is and who to call in an emergency.
4. Eating, drinking, or tasting chemicals is strictly forbidden in the lab.
5. Know the risks of chemicals and equipment before you begin.
6. Stay alert. Never leave burners or reactions unattended.
7. Turn off heating devices when done. Keep flammables far from heat.
8. Store personal items safely. Clear clutter from benches and floors.
9. Report spills or injuries. Dispose of broken glass properly.
10. Wipe surfaces, rinse equipment, and wash hands with soap for 20+ seconds.

At ANR, we believe that safety is the foundation of every successful experiment. Real accidents serve as stark reminders that even a moment of negligence can lead to serious consequences. By staying informed, following best practices, and addressing potential risks proactively, researchers can create a safer, more productive lab environment.