Some safety hazards are common to everyone. Slips, trips, and falls can injure anyone at the Lab. Back problems and other strains and sprains are the major cause of injury and lost work time at all workplaces, including LBNL. Lifting properly and keeping in good physical shape help to prevent debilitating back problems. Do not exceed your physical limitations; ask for assistance when necessary. No one knows your capabilities better than you do.

Good housekeeping practices are part of a comprehensive safety program and are everyone’s responsibility. Good housekeeping includes keeping work areas and hallways free of clutter and arranging for prompt removal of hazardous waste, discarded chemicals, and equipment. Everyone must be aware of the safety risks around them and take steps to prevent injury.

Operating hazardous equipment and machinery can cause industrial accidents involving all body parts, especially hands, wrists, and fingers. Eye injuries can occur in shops or laboratories. Always use the proper protective equipment for the job to reduce your risk of injury.

Remember that anyone entering areas that require eye protection must wear safety glasses. Visitor safety glasses are available for your use if you are in such areas temporarily.

Examples of other physical hazards are ionizing radiation, high-voltage electricity, noise, high-pressure systems, microwaves, and lasers. Protection from these hazards is generally provided through training, safe work practices, protective equipment, and engineering controls such as safety interlocks. For instance, where high-voltage electricity, high-pressure systems, toxic gases, cryogenics, or vacuum systems are present, special precautions must be observed. Written safety procedures will define required procedures and describe safety features of specialized equipment or processes, such as those listed above. You must be familiar with any safety procedures for equipment or hazards with which you work.

Remember, common accidents are the primary contributors to workplace incidents.