Creating a Smart Work Bench

It has often been said that a messy work bench is a clear sign that a scientist is at work. While this is a true statement, it is more beneficial to learn how to have a smart work bench, one that is organized and laid out properly. The work day will be more enjoyable and less prone to errors, as you will have an organized area in which to complete your daily tasks. It takes time and energy, but once you figure out how to create a work bench that functions smartly, you will find the day runs smoother than ever before!

Starting Tips

To begin, it is important to set up your work bench in the right manner. This will include keeping the tools on the side of the bench where your dominant hand rests. This creates easy access. So, if you are left-handed, choose the left side for your tools.

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Effectively Using a Fume Hood

A fume hood is a unit that is used to promote safety in the laboratory. Professionals in various industries use a fume hood to complete a task that involves hazardous materials in order to stay safe. It is important to have quality fume hoods installed in your lab when materials need to be handled that can be dangerous. Providing quality training must also be included so that users know the best practices to remain safe during operation.

Understanding Standard Guidelines

When using a fume hood, there are guidelines that must be followed. The exhaust must be operating properly. The unit will have a special ventilation system that will exhaust any hazardous vapors and fumes from the laboratory. The baffles of the unit need to be checked often to ensure that they are not obstructed.

Certain fume hoods have an airflow monitor and this needs to be checked to ensure that the system is functioning properly. If any changes are found, the work needs to be stopped so that the airflow can be checked to ensure safety.

When using a benchtop fume hood, the user needs to keep the face outside of the system. The sash is a barrier that provides protection. Only the hands should cross the sash and be placed inside the fume hood.

It is recommended that the user should stay at least six inches from the fume hood face. Protective gear should also be used to ensure safety. This can include goggles, gloves and a face shield. The type of testing or experiment you are conducting will determine the type of gear needed.

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Executing Lab Efficiency with Proper Organization

Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘a place for everything, everything in its place’. This quote has been used and reused time and time again and it plays a vital role in lab efficiency. Without proper organization and everything in the lab having its own place, the space can quickly become disorganized. Experiments can fall behind, and employees become frustrated as they can’t find the materials needed in a timely manner. Having the right organization in place helps to ensure success.

Assigning Responsibilities

One way a lab fails to succeed is with having the right products and maintaining the space effectively. Every lab should have dedicated assignments for each individual to be responsible for. One might be responsible for reordering beakers and tubes while another is in charge of ordering chemicals. This way, there is one individual that is responsible and can be held accountable when things begin to become unorganized.

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