Lab and prep room science technician checklist

Is the relevant PPE available and in place for Technicians and Teachers?

Are safety goggles available a cleaned for student use?

Is firefighting equipment present and in date? (Fire Extinguishers, Fire Blankets and relevant signage)

Are eyewash stations available? (Check expiry date of any eyewash solutions)

Do you have stocks of disinfectants and cleaning supplies?

Is the department’s first aid kit complete and up to date?

Is the departmental health and safety policy up to date?

Laboratory sinks: Are they all free from debris?  Are each of the taps working?  Check for loose connections and report.

Handwashing sink: Is hot water coming through the tap?  Have the dispensers for soap, paper towels and alcohol-free hand sanitiser been filled?

Electrical sockets: Are they all free from damage? Apply ‘out of service’ sign and report where necessary.

Gas supply: This may have been off for a long time.  Check it is fully functioning and flowing in each laboratory before the students return.

Gas taps:  Are they free from blockages?  Check for loose connections and report.

Is there an empty dustpan and brush and glass disposal bin in the right place?

Is the laboratory spill kit in place?

General snagging: Check and report any wobbly desks, broken stools, areas of flooring/windows in need of repair.

Is the remote control for the overhead projector present in each laboratory?

Are there safety screens available for class demonstrations?

Is all laboratory glassware clean, free from chips and in the appropriate place?

Are all test tube racks clean and in the correct place?

Has the appropriate heating equipment been checked and is it in the correct place?

·         Service and check tubing on Bunsen burners

·         Check gauzes for damage and replace where necessary

·         Check heat proof mats for damage and replace where necessary

Chemical store: Check chemical expiry dates, are your chemical stocks up to date?

Are the fume cupboard testing certificates up to date?

Is the autoclave servicing certificate up to date?

Have any items been identified as failing their PAT Test? Dispose of any failed items responsibly and replace items where necessary.

Radioactive sources: Check the department’s radioactive sources, that they are present, and that leakage testing and documentation is up to date.

Deioniser: check the filter is in date and that the deioniser is working correctly.

Trollies: check that all technician equipment trollies are available, are in the right place and are fully functional (free from wobbly wheels etc).

Bacterial stocks: Are your current bacterial slopes and broths viable?  Check for signs of mould, dispose of and replenish where necessary.

Class sets of power supplies:  Are these all functioning? Are there any limit locks, and are they set at the right voltage?

Electrical equipment: Have all batteries, bulbs and leads been tested and replaced where necessary? 

Are any class sets of microscopes charged and ready for use?