A missing or broken vacuum pump guard is one of the most common OSHA violations. Whenever a pulley/belt assembly is within reach, there needs to be an enclosure to prevent fingers, hair, or clothing from being caught.

Paper cutters are another common device that requires a guard. In both cases, manufacturers can provide the parts to upgrade older units that are missing the necessary protective guards.

In the storage area, compressed gas cylinders should be separated according to hazard category: flammables, oxidizers, inerts, and empties. When transported, a wheel cart with a restraining chain should be used. In both cases, the protective cap should be kept on.

Compressed gas cylinders need to be chained in place during storage, transportation, and use. If the valve were to break off, the cylinder would become a rocket causing potentially significant injury and/or property damage. In addition, a falling cylinder can cause crippling injuries.

An inspection checklist for compressed gas cylinders in available from LSI.

Dr. James A. Kaufman is the founder and president of The Laboratory Safety Institute (LSI) www.labsafety.org—an international, non-profit center for safety in science and science education. LSI provides workshops, seminars, onsite training programs, lab safety program development consultations, facilities inspections, and regulatory compliance assistance. Contact LSI with all your lab safety questions: 800-647-1977 or info@labsafety.org.