Warning Signs in Science Laboratories

Information on signs As mentioned above because of the type of work done in a laboratory, many dangerous situations can suddenly erupt. There are dangers that can arise from biohazards, to high voltage, to substances that are corrosive. Since reading different languages spoken by different people, the warning signs used are normally portrayed as symbols – which can be universally understood.

List of the different signs in Laboratories • Hand Sign: A warning sign with hand gloves painted on it. This sign is to warn people working in the laboratory that they need to wear gloves to protect their hands from any harmful chemicals they may be working with. Laboratories and hospitals normally set up dispensers which dispense plastic or throwaway gloves. • Biohazard Sign: The symbol for biohazards is three circles joined together in a triangle with one circle in the centre. Biohazards are a kind of microorganism which can kill any living organism. It includes contagious bacteria and viruses and other toxins that are harmful. It is also wise to put on a face mask in addition to gloves when visiting a laboratory where biohazard materials are in use. • High Voltage Sign: At times work in a laboratory gives rise to very high levels of voltage. This happens if a living organism gets in contact with electricity it can even cause death. The sign for high voltage has a lightning zig-zag drawing on a triangular board. • Laser Beam Hazard Sign: Another important warning sign in a laboratory is the laser beam hazard. The laser is a powerful tool which cuts through metal, it is also used to seal objects and for surgical procedures. The sign is triangular in shape and has a sun-like figure in the centre with lines like rays attached pointing outwards. • Corrosive Sign: These warning signs warns you about any corrosive substance nearby. Even if a drop of such substances touches you hand it will eat into the flesh. Worse still if such corrosive substance comes in contact with your eyes, you will suffer permanent eye damage causing blindness. Caustic soda is one such corrosive substance and you will notice it being used in soaps and sewage areas. The corrosive sign shows a hand and another object with falling drops from vials. As the drops reach the hand corrosive action takes place. So if you see this sign on any chemical you are using, handle the same with extreme caution and care. • Irritant Sign: The ‘irritant’ sign is represented by a big black-coloured ‘X’ sign on a yellow background. When you see this sign you need to know that that particular compound if it comes in contact with your skin will make it red and form a blister. So if you see any irritant warning signs you should be prepared and put on a pair of gloves before starting work.

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