Environmental Health and Safety

Heating Element Safety

Breadcrumb

Heating Element Safety

Accidents involving a heat source typically results in a burn, fire and/ or an explosion. Using these types of equipment in the fume hood will help protect lab personnel in the event an accident occurs.

Specific pieces of laboratory equipment that warrant particular reminders when it comes to heating:

In General

  • Never use or store flammable chemicals around heating elements.
  • Heating devices should be elevated to the work being performed so that heat can be removed immediately if needed.
  • Never leave heating elements on while unattended.
  • Inspect glassware for visible cracks, make sure glassware is heat resistant.
  • The use of space heaters is prohibited in laboratories.