In the laboratory, the proper management of various chemicals is crucial. There are numerous types of chemicals and reagent solutions used in daily operations, many of which can be toxic or hazardous. Effective chemical management is not only essential for ensuring accurate analytical results but also for maintaining a safe working environment.
To ensure safety, the laboratory should store only a limited amount of chemicals that are needed for immediate use. Chemicals should be categorized based on their type—such as inorganic, organic, and biological agents. Inorganic substances should be stored in the order of acids, bases, and salts, with salts further classified according to metal activity. Biological culture agents must be stored separately depending on the type of culture. Hazardous chemicals, such as explosives, poisons, or radioactive materials, should be kept in locked cabinets, accessible only to authorized personnel, and managed under a strict system requiring two-person approval for access.
Hazardous chemicals include:
1. Explosive and unstable substances, such as concentrated hydrogen peroxide and organic peroxides.
2. Oxidizing agents, like strong oxidizing acids and hydrogen peroxide.
3. Flammable substances, including flammable gases, liquids, solids, and materials that ignite when exposed to moisture, such as alkali metal hydrides, calcium carbide, and white phosphorus.
4. Toxic substances.
5. Corrosive substances, such as strong acids and bases.
6. Radioactive materials.
The use of chemical reagents must follow a structured management system. This includes storing chemicals according to their properties, separating incompatible substances, and using labeled containers. All chemicals should have clear labels, and any unclear or expired items should be disposed of properly. Containers should be sealed to prevent leakage, and light-sensitive chemicals should be stored in dark glass bottles. Fire hazards must be strictly controlled, and flammable or explosive materials should be stored in secure, well-ventilated areas.
Chemicals that react violently with water, such as potassium, sodium, and phosphorus pentachloride, should not be stored in damp environments. The procurement and transportation of dangerous goods must comply with local regulations, and highly toxic or radioactive materials should be stored under double-lock systems. Regular inspections are necessary to prevent accidents caused by decomposition or deterioration.
Only authorized personnel may handle chemicals, and borrowing of reagents requires prior approval. Each reagent should be used individually and not mixed. Organic solvents and volatile substances should be handled in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods, and never directly over an open flame. Strong acids and bases must be stored and used according to safety guidelines.
In addition to chemical management, instrument control is equally important. Precision instruments require specific environmental conditions, such as stability, cleanliness, and protection from dust and moisture. A dedicated person should manage these instruments, and all details, including purchase dates, specifications, and maintenance records, should be documented. Each instrument should have a comprehensive file containing manuals, usage procedures, and maintenance logs.
Non-precision instruments also need proper management. They should be stored in suitable conditions and maintained regularly. Personnel responsible for these instruments should be trained and capable of handling them effectively.
Finally, the laboratory must implement a comprehensive management system. This includes defining roles for all staff, ensuring quality control in testing, managing the lifecycle of equipment, and maintaining accurate records of standards, procedures, and reports. Additionally, there should be strict protocols for handling dangerous, valuable, and sensitive reagents to ensure both safety and efficiency in the lab.
Optical Flats mirrors are ideal for a variety of applications including interferometry, imaging systems, laser applications, optical path folding, and autocollimation. These mirrors are available in a variety of coating and substrate options, along with surface flatness options of λ/10 and λ/20. Fused Silica, is optically clear and features excellent resistance to abrasion and high durability, making it the best choice for applications in harsh environments.
The mirrors are available in circular, square, and rectangular dimensions. Rectangular first surface mirrors are ideal for applications requiring the mirror to be mounted at 45° in order to produce a 90° bend in the light path.
Protected metallic coatings provide a moderate level of reflection over a very broad spectral range and are widely used as mirrors. These coatings are protected by a thin layer of dielectric material in order to make them durable. Enhanced metallic coatings provide greater reflection across the operating band width. These coatings are enhanced by adding a multilayer dielectric stack. Metal coatings will modify the state of polarization of an incident beam of light and are therefore inappropriate for most polarization sensitive applications.
