This guide assists in selecting and purchasing appropriate lab safety equipment, ensuring compliance with safety standards and hazard-specific requirements.

Approved Suppliers Use the Show Me Shop Suppliers for purchasing lab safety equipment: Show Me Shop Suppliers

General Considerations for All PPE

  • Permeation and Degradation: All protective materials can eventually permeate or degrade. Inspect PPE regularly for signs of wear or chemical damage.
  • Damage Inspection: Inspect PPE before and after each use. Replace damaged or compromised equipment immediately.
  • Chemical Compatibility: No single material protects against all chemicals. Refer to SDS and manufacturer guidelines for specific chemical resistance.
  • Temperature Effects: Higher temperatures reduce breakthrough time. Select PPE appropriate for the working temperature.
  • Thickness and Dexterity: Thicker materials provide better protection but may reduce dexterity. Balance protection with usability. Material Variability: Chemical resistance can vary by manufacturer and product lot. Confirm performance with the manufacturer.
  • Decontamination: Contaminated PPE must be decontaminated or replaced. Follow manufacturer cleaning instructions.
  • Shelf Life and Storage: Some PPE has a shelf life and requires proper storage (e.g., away from sunlight, ozone, or moisture).
  • Testing: The best way to select PPE is to test it under specific work conditions and with the chemicals being used.

Training Modules

Purchasing Process for PPE: Step-by-Step Guide

Minimum Standards for: Laboratory Attire, Protective Footwear, Protective Gloves, Eye Protection, Hearing Protection and Respiratory Protection. For a comprehensive list, check out our PPE Purchasing Guide for detailed information on choosing, fitting, and maintaining personal protective equipment.

  1. Identify PPE Needs
    1. Conduct a hazard assessment to determine required PPE (refer to SDS and hazard-specific tables in the purchasing guide).
      1. Chemical Resistance Chart: https://www.usplastic.com/catalog/files/charts/LG%20CC.pdf
    2. Consult your lab safety officer for specialized equipment (e.g., FR-rated lab coats, chemical-resistant gloves).
  2. Select Approved Suppliers
    1. Primary Vendor: Fisher Scientific PPE Catalog
    2. Alternate Vendors: 3M, DuPont, Bulwark (for flame-resistant gear).
  3. Navigate the Purchasing Website
    1. Step 1: Visit the Show Me Shop Suppliers portal.
    2. Step 2: Log in with your institutional credentials.
    3. Step 3: Use the search bar to enter product names (e.g., "Nitrile gloves," "ANSI Z87.1 goggles").
    4. Step 4: Filter results by:
      1. Supplier (Fisher, 3M)
      2. Category (Gloves, Eye Protection)
      3. Price Range
    5. Step 5: Review product details (sizing, material, compliance standards).
    6. Step 6: Add items to cart and proceed to checkout.
  4. Checkout & Documentation
    1. Follow institutional procurement procedures (e.g., departmental approval for high-cost items).
    2. Save or print the order confirmation for records.
  5. Receiving & Inspection
    1. Verify that delivered PPE matches the order specifications.
    2. Report discrepancies to procurement immediately.

Special Notes for Procurement

  • Lab Coats:
    • Flame-resistant (FR) coats are mandatory for pyrophoric materials or open flames.
    • Do not launder at home—use approved industrial laundry services.
  • Gloves:
    • Check chemical resistance charts for compatibility.
    • For high-risk tasks, order multiple sizes for fit testing.
  • Respirators:
    • Require pre-purchase medical evaluation and fit-testing (contact EHS).

Troubleshooting Purchasing Issues

  • Issue: "Product out of stock"
    • Use alternate approved vendors or contact procurement for expedited options.
  • Issue: "Wrong size delivered"
    • Initiate a return/exchange through the supplier portal.
  • Issue: "Unclear compliance standards"
    • Consult the ANSI/OSHA PPE Standards Database or email EHS@uni.edu.

Key Principles in PPE Management

  1. Hazard Assessment
    1. Conduct a thorough evaluation of workplace hazards (chemical, physical, biological, radiological) before selecting PPE.
    2. Refer to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemical compatibility.
  2. Fit & Comfort
    1. PPE must fit properly to ensure protection (e.g., snug gloves, sealed respirators).
    2. Avoid loose-fitting gear that may snag or restrict movement.
  3. Inspection & Maintenance
    1. Inspect PPE before and after each use for damage (tears, cracks, degradation).
    2. Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning, storage, and replacement.
  4. Permeation & Degradation
    1. Chemicals can break down PPE materials over time—check for swelling, discoloration, or stiffness.
    2. No single material protects against all hazards; always verify compatibility.
  5. Training Requirements
    1. Users must complete training on proper PPE use, limitations, and disposal.
    2. University policy mandates annual fit-testing for respirators.
  6. Approved Suppliers
    1. Purchase PPE from approved vendors (e.g., Fisher Scientific, 3M) for compliance.
    2. Lab coats, gloves, and respirators must meet ANSI, OSHA, or NFPA standards.

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