Hidden risks in the laboratory

Is the heat dissipation space unobstructed? Ensure the back of the refrigerator is not blocked by debris to ensure proper heat dissipation from the compressor.

Is the alarm function effective? Verify that the alarm text message and phone call can reach the current person on duty to ensure smooth communication.

Is the reagent storage properly maintained? If the reagents were not cleaned before the holiday, remind the on-duty personnel to pay attention to any reagents without date labels and be aware of any abnormalities.

Is the exhaust truly shut off? Verify that the exhaust fan is stopped, not just the glass door.

Is the cabinet empty? Ensure that no volatile reagents remain to prevent gas accumulation in the confined space.

Is the pipework drained? If condensate is not drained from pipes that continuously emit acidic gases, it will continue to corrode the pipes.

Is the water bath filled with water? A persistent burning state can easily cause a fire.

Is the oil bath cooled and powered off? Ensure the heating is off and the equipment is in a safe state.

Is the circulating pump turned off? If the circulating pump in a thermostatic water bath runs idle for several days, the motor is likely to burn out.

Are the magnetic stirrer and vacuum pump powered off? One could burn out the motor, while the other could drain the pump oil.

Is the rotary evaporator's condenser water supply turned off? This not only wastes water resources but also risks bursting pipes and flooding.

Is the heating mantle/plate unplugged? Simply turning off the switch is not enough to protect the device. An aging switch or an accidental triggering of the switch could cause persistent dry heating.

[Ultimate Inspection Tip]: Have the on-duty personnel turn off the power strips for all non-essential equipment, leaving only essential equipment like the refrigerator powered. Touch each device; any that are hot are operating "hiddenly."

Chemical Warehouses: Stability and Isolation Are Key

Is the temperature inside the cabinet stable? During the summer and autumn months, the temperature swings between day and night are significant, so be aware of the risk of leaks from reagent bottles due to thermal expansion and contraction.

Are hazardous reagents mixed? Dangerous combinations such as concentrated sulfuric acid and perchloric acid, oxidizers and reducing agents, and peroxides and organic solvents must be stored in separate cabinets.

Are expired reagents isolated? Expired peroxides, in particular, can generate heat upon self-condensation. Unattended, heat accumulation can easily lead to fires.

Are bottle caps securely fastened? Volatile reagents with loose caps can evaporate over time, leaving a dangerous atmosphere.

Biosafety Cabinets: Completely Empty and Close

Is the cabinet empty? Leftover petri dishes and tip boxes can lead to mold growth within a week.

Is the exhaust fan shut off? Failure to shut off the exhaust fan, which is connected to the building system, results in significant energy waste and equipment wear and tear.

Is the UV lamp turned off? Continuous exposure not only significantly shortens lamp life but can also produce excessive ozone.

Is the waste container clean? Wastewater containing microorganisms is an excellent culture medium, and excessive bacterial growth can lead to overflows and contamination.