Laboratory coat

Laboratory Coat

A laboratory coat or lab coat is a knee-length overcoat/smock worn by professionals in the scientific and healthcare fields, or by those involved in laboratory work to protect their clothes from chemical spills, biological materials, and radioactive substances. The coat is a symbol of the scientific profession and is a mandatory safety requirement in many labs.

History

The use of the lab coat dates back to the 19th century. The early lab coat was beige, but the color changed to white in the early 20th century to symbolize cleanliness and purity. The white color also made it easier to spot any contaminants on the coat.

Design and Material

Lab coats are typically made from cotton, polyester, a cotton-polyester blend, or nylon. Some lab coats are made from flame-resistant material for use in labs with a high risk of fire. The design of a lab coat includes long sleeves to protect the arms, and it is usually fastened with buttons or snaps. Some lab coats have elastic or knit cuffs to prevent liquids from running down the sleeves. Many lab coats also have pockets for carrying small tools or notes.

Usage

Lab coats are used in various fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. They are also used in industry and education. In addition to protecting the wearer's clothes and skin, lab coats can also serve to identify individuals as belonging to a particular profession or field of study.

Safety Considerations

While lab coats provide a certain level of protection, they are not completely impervious to all hazards. For example, they do not provide adequate protection against strong acids or bases, or against infectious agents. Therefore, additional personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and face shields, may be required depending on the nature of the work.

See Also

• Personal protective equipment
• Safety in the laboratory
• White coat ceremony

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