Review and impression LabSafety event 2019

Safety is not a given, not even in the lab. That was the common thread in the lecture program of the LabSafety event 2019 where 317 visitors were informed about the latest developments and products were in the spotlight.

The lecture program in the ReeHorst in Ede was kicked off by Henri Géron, affiliated with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment. He made it clear that exposure to hazardous substances is an underestimated problem. Géron, who previously worked with FHI spoke about this topic, among other things, mentioned the Chromium 6 problem.

Erwin Theelen from Tenviro gave an interesting talk about the labelling of samples and lab mixtures and the necessary CLP classification. The old pictograms have been banned, but what are the exact rules and exceptions to the current guidelines? Theelen pointed to a method he developed himself online tool for CLP classification which can make the life of a laboratory worker a little easier.

During Gijsbert van Willigen's lecture, the question of who is responsible for working safely in a lab was discussed in more detail. In his presentation, Van Willigen used numerous examples to explain how safety procedures in a laboratory are forgotten or ignored. He had previously stated opposite FHI that working safely in such an environment requires efforts from several parties.

Correct placement

Microbiological safety cabinets also reduce the chance of accidents, but then careful consideration must be given to, for example, the placement. Martijn van Rooij of ValidR gave tips on how these safety cabinets can best be placed. In a subsequent lecture, Marloes Nieuwenhuis addressed the question of how HBO students can be well prepared to work as safely as possible in a lab environment. For example, she noticed that after an internship, students often no longer automatically put on their safety glasses when they enter the lab. This also seems to be a task for companies and institutions.

When it comes to safety in the lab, BHV'ers also play a role. Rob Kerste from TU Delft talked about the different roles assigned to company emergency responders during his lecture. Because in practice, they also have to be able to deal with things like nitrogen, lasers, radioactive sources, departments where nanoparticles are used and biological material within the TU.

Marcel de Munck concluded the seminar program of the LabSafety event 2019 with a lecture about stress. De Munck indicated that the human stress response plays a useful role, but can also get in the way. Somewhat reassuringly, he also said that dealing with stress can be trained.

Afterwards, drinks were waiting. Visitors to LabSafety were also given a final chance to visit the stands of the 22 exhibitors to get the latest products and services around laboratory safety in order.