DSL - Safety in the Food Science Lab Microlesson

Safety in the Food Science Lab

What safety measure should we take while in the Food Lab?

Quick Glance: Safety in the Lab   

In the Food Science lab, equipment is used to evaluate the quality and validity of food samples. Food safety is a key topic of concern among consumers and the future of food safety starts with testing in the laboratory or in the field. This helps control not only quality but safety standards in food. For many Food Scientists, the lab is their home from 9 am-5 pm. Keeping that area in good working order and creating a safe working environment is quite important for most chemists. You will learn more about how to use the lab safely as well as the equipment that is needed to perform valuable food testing.

Explore: Why We Test New Food

You have been learning a lot about food and the senses over the past couple of lessons. You also know how food starts as a concept and arrives months or even years later to the shelves. But, there is one concept that we still have not covered. The lab plays a key role in testing new food products. There are several reasons for testing new food.

Click through the tabs below to learn more.

 

Lab Equipment

So, now that you understand a little bit about why we test food and what manufacturers are looking for, let’s focus on what type of equipment might be found in the lab. There have been changes over time in the lab. The shift is moving toward items that are more efficient, reliable, and automated. In many labs, space and funding is also an issue. So, if chemists can find tools that have multiple uses or functions, that can help save space and money.

Teachers and Students can avoid accidents by:

• using the proper equipment.
• making sure the equipment is clean and in good working order.
• receiving instruction in the proper use of all equipment.
• practicing the proper use of equipment.

General Chemistry Lab Safety Rules

1. Always keep your workspace free of clutter.
2. Make sure that equipment is positioned so that the center of gravity is balanced.
3. Equipment or chemical bottles should not be placed on the floor.
4. Make sure to vent the area when hazardous gases or fumes are likely to be involved.
5. Any problems with glassware, equipment, chemicals, etc. should always be reported immediately to the instructor.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the more common equipment found in the lab and understand how to use it more safely.

 

Lab Tour

Watch the video below to tour a real lab.

 

Challenge

Do you know how to stay safe in the lab? Try the challenge below to test your knowledge.

 

Takeaway: What Is Your Takeaway?

In 1970 the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA) was created. It reads,

“To assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information,education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health.”

OSHA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) work together to ensure that the workplace provides a healthy and safe work environment. That goes for Food Safety Labs. With more than 500,000 workers employed by labs in our country, OSHA plays a crucial role in mandating safety regulations to protect workers that in turn protect our food supply. They also help to regulate and maintain the safe use of all lab equipment you just learned about.

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