4.4 Housekeeping
Housekeeping
Housekeeping refers to the overall condition of the laboratory and how workspaces are maintained on a day-to-day basis. Good housekeeping supports safe work practices, reliable emergency response, and efficient research operations.
Effective laboratory housekeeping includes the following practices:
- Keep work areas free of unnecessary clutter, trash, unused equipment, and empty or obsolete chemical containers. This includes benches, fume hoods, refrigerators, cabinets, sinks, chemical storage areas, and waste accumulation areas.
- Ensure all chemical containers are closed when not actively in use to prevent spills, evaporation, and unintended exposures.
- Clean up chemical spills promptly, regardless of quantity. When addressing a spill, check nearby surfaces such as equipment, cabinet fronts, doors, and countertops for splashes or residues. For spill response guidance, refer to the Chemical Spill Procedures.
- Maintain clear access to emergency and safety equipment at all times. This includes eyewash stations, emergency showers, fire extinguishers, electrical panels, spill kits, and emergency exits.
- Maintain required aisle and egress clearances. A minimum of three feet of clearance between benches and equipment is required by fire code. Exits must remain free of obstructions and tripping hazards such as boxes, cords, bottles, or equipment.
- Store materials safely. Heavier or bulkier items should be stored on lower shelves. Combustible materials must not be stored within 24 inches of the ceiling in unsprinklered rooms. In sprinklered rooms, all storage must be kept at least 18 inches below sprinkler head deflectors to ensure effective fire protection.
- Use appropriate equipment when accessing overhead storage. Always use a stepladder; do not stand on chairs, benches, or countertops. If a stepladder is not available, contact your Building Coordinator.
Maintaining good housekeeping reduces the likelihood of spills, trips, fires, and blocked emergency equipment. Clean, organized workspaces also support situational awareness and help laboratories respond more effectively during emergencies.
Principal Investigators and laboratory supervisors are responsible for ensuring that housekeeping expectations are established and supported in their laboratories. All laboratory personnel share responsibility for maintaining a clean, orderly, and safe work environment.