Prevent Toxic Poisoning By Using Analytical Balances the Right Way

Follow Best Practices When Using your Analytical Balance to Prevent Dangerous Contaminations

We’ve blogged about the do’s and dont’s when it comes to analytical balance use and chemical handling in the lab.  We’ve however not established it with a live case study.  Here is an example of what can result from improper handling of chemicals and sub-optimal use of the analytical balance.  It started with the detection of abnormally high levels of arsenic in the urine of an employee at an affiliated laboratory.  Investigations revealed that the entire process of using the analytical balance and weighing flouted several best practices.  In fact the contamination was so high that an external decontamination crew had to be called in.  The article reinforces the need to follow best practices when handling chemicals.

For further information visit risk.arizona.edu.