Lab coats are a critical component of personal protective equipment (PPE) for individuals working with chemicals. They play a crucial role in safeguarding the wearer against splashes, spills, and other potential contact with hazardous substances.
When selecting a lab coat for chemical work, several critical factors should be taken into account:
Material:
Lab coats are commonly crafted from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both materials. Cotton, being a natural fiber, offers excellent breathability and comfort. However, it is not as chemically resistant as polyester. On the other hand, polyester, a synthetic fiber, provides superior durability and chemical resistance but lacks breathability.
For general chemical work, a lab coat made from a cotton/polyester blend is a suitable choice. It offers good protection against most chemicals while ensuring comfort during wear. Nevertheless, when handling highly corrosive or hazardous chemicals, a lab coat made from 100% polyester or a specialized chemical-resistant material becomes indispensable.
Fit:
A lab coat should fit snugly yet comfortably, with sufficient length to cover the wearer's arms and torso, and sleeves long enough to extend over the wrists. Additionally, it is important for the coat to be fully closed at the front up to the collar.
Ensuring a proper fit is crucial as a loose coat can compromise protection against chemical splashes or spills on the skin, whereas a tight coat may cause discomfort and hinder movement.
Features:
Certain lab coats are equipped with supplementary features that offer added protection, including:
Pockets: Pockets serve as convenient storage spaces for pens, pencils, and other small items. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that pockets can also act as reservoirs for chemicals. Therefore, it is imperative to evacuate and diligently cleanse them after each use.
Zippers or snaps: Zippers and snaps play a crucial role in securely closing the lab coat, effectively preventing any infiltration of chemicals.
Hoods: Hoods can offer supplementary protection for the head and neck, primarily when there is a potential hazard of chemicals splashing or spilling onto the wearer.
