View source for General Laboratory Safety and Information

== General Laboratory Safety and Information ==

=== a. Laboratory access codes and computer passwords ===

• To obtain Tribology lab access code or safe code, contact Prof. P de Vaal.

• Ensure that you have access to the computers in the lab.
The relevant passwords are: 

(i)  hfrr (for the PC used to control the hfrr)

(ii)  srv (for the PC situated further down the laboratory desk, near the srv machine)

•'''Do not''', under any circumstances give '''any''' access codes or passwords to anyone else.

=== b. General Laboratory Safety ===



•Ensure that the door is closed while you work in the lab and make sure you lock up, turn off the lights and put the relevant devices(camera, upper and lower test specimens)in the safe before you leave.

•The vast majority of the substances used in the lab are flammable. It is therefore crucial to keep any naked flames away from flammable substances. Obviously smoking in the lab is strictly forbidden.

•Toluene, one of the solvents used in the labs. Is '''highly toxic''' and should not be inhaled. Use gloves at all times when handling toluene. If toluene comes into contact with your skin, immediately wash with soap and water. In the event that the substance is ingested, '''seek medical attention immediately'''.  See [http://www.sciencelab.com/msdsList.php Toluene and other chemicals MSDS] for more information.

•Ensure that you are aware of the test procedures and how to assemble and operate the various apparatus before you handle or start a test on any apparatus.

•Ensure the lab is as clean as possible once you have finished working.

•Report any apparatus malfunctions to the honours or masters student working in the lab.

•Once a test has been completed, disassemble the apparatus and put all upper and lower test specimens, screws etc. into a toluene bath before leaving the lab.

•Ensure that you are aware of the first aid kit’s location (located on the wall near the sink). 

•If possible, do not work in the lab by yourself particularly during after hours. At least make sure that someone is aware of your presence in the lab.

•Once you have finished using any laboratory tools such as spanners and screwdrivers, place them back into the tool cabinet.

•Any dirty glassware should be cleaned with heptane and placed in the drying rack above the sink.

•The paraffin located near the sink is used to remove grease from glassware.

=== c. Contact Details of Relevant Persons ===

•Prof. P. de Vaal

philip.devaal@up.ac.za

012 420 2475

•Howard Benade

howardbenade@gmail.com

072 245 9390

•Mr. G. Claasen (Lab Manager)

012 420 2625