The following clothing and PPE requirements apply to all laboratories where hazardous materials are used or physical hazards exist. These expectations reflect the University’s minimum standards for personal protection and are enforced during inspections.
Clothing
- Clothing must cover the entire body, except for the hands, face, and head.
- Shorts, skirts, or garments that leave skin exposed below the waist are not permitted.
- The area between pants and shoes must not leave skin exposed.
Laboratory Coats
- A properly sized lab coat must be worn by every person in the lab.
- Lab coats must be fastened fully to cover the torso.
- Sleeves must extend to the wrist to provide full arm coverage. Knit cuffs are recommended.
- Flame-resistant (FR-rated) lab coats are required when working with pyrophoric materials or flammable liquids in labs using open flames or ignition sources.
- Lab coats must not be taken home or washed in public laundromats. Contaminated coats must be decontaminated prior to laundering or properly disposed of.
Exceptions
While PPE is recommended at all times in laboratories, a person may be present without PPE under the following limited circumstances:
- They are working exclusively and continuously in a documented, PI-approved clean zone.
- They are making a brief, no-contact visit with no interaction with hazardous materials.
- They are present during periods when no hazardous materials are in use and no hazards exist.
Individuals without PPE must remain alert to active work involving hazardous materials and must leave the space or don PPE when conditions require it.
Compliance Monitoring
- PPE use is documented during EHS inspections.
- Observation data may be shared with academic leadership, including Chairs, Directors, Deans, and the Provost.
For PPE procurement guidance or questions, please contact labsafety@missouri.edu or refer to the PPE Purchasing and Selection Guide.
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PPE Minimum Standards: Laboratory Attire
- Types: Basic (full cotton/polyester), Flame Resistant (FR-rated), Aprons
- Selection Criteria:
- Based on chemical hazard evaluation
- Must be appropriately sized, buttoned/snapped fully
- Prefer knit cuffed sleeves and snap closures
- Special Notes:
- FR coats are required for pyrophoric materials and labs with flammable liquids/open flames
- Do not launder lab coats at private residences/public facilities
Approved Lab Coats & PPE Products
| Product Name | Product Link | Alternate Product Available for Fit Estimation? | Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fisherbrand™ Unisex Cotton Lab Coats | View Product | No — Use Cintas 100% Cotton Lab Coat for size estimation | S–XL |
| Fisherbrand™ White Unisex Lab Coats With Knit Cuffs | View Product | No | — |
| White Swan™ Meta Maxima™ Fluid-Resistant Lab Coat with Knit Cuffs | View Product | No | — |
| Bulwark™ Concealed Snap Front Cotton Lab Coats | View Product | No — Use Workrite Knitcuff FR-rated Lab Coat for size estimation | S |
| DuPont™ Tyvek™ Bib Apron | View Product | No | — |
| CritiCore Protective Wear Unisex Cotton Lab Coats | View Product | Yes | S–XL |
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) by Hazard Type
| Hazard Type | Recommended PPE | Examples | Additional Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Splashes | Chemical-resistant aprons or coveralls | Handling hazardous chemicals or liquids | Ensure aprons or coveralls cover the entire torso and legs. |
| Heat or Flames | Flame-resistant clothing (FRC) | Welding, firefighting, or working near high heat | Select FRC with the appropriate flame resistance rating. |
| Electrical Hazards | Non-conductive clothing | Electrical work or working near live wires | Ensure clothing is free of tears or damage. |
| Particulate Exposure | Disposable coveralls | Working in dusty environments or with hazardous particles | Dispose of coveralls after use to prevent contamination. |
| Biological Hazards | Lab coats or disposable coveralls | Working with biological agents, blood, or bodily fluids | Use disposable coveralls for high-risk biological work. |
| Minimum Lab Standard | Lab coats | All laboratory work with hazardous materials | Lab coats must be reasonably sized, fastened, and cover the entire torso. |
Key Considerations for Body Protection
- Permeation and Degradation: Inspect PPE for signs of chemical breakdown.
- Damage Inspection: Check clothing for rips, holes, or weak spots before and after use.
- Chemical Compatibility: Match PPE materials with the chemicals being used.
- Temperature Effects: Account for how heat or cold may affect protective gear.
- Decontamination: Properly decontaminate or dispose of PPE after exposure.
- Shelf Life & Storage: Follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure effectiveness.
Access the full Lab Safety Equipment Purchasing & Selection Guide