Exploring the gap in the Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) laboratory standard: a literature review and recommendations to enhance histology laboratory safety practices

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article discusses current available resources with respect to regulatory agencies including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for determining the requirements placed upon laboratories for handling hazardous materials. The focus is specific to the histology laboratory and xylene use, and includes a literature review, admixed with historical reference points. Procedures and tasks in the histology laboratory are highlighted in relation to their connection with the quality of the work environment with an emphasis on air quality. Recommendations are provided for maintaining an appropriate work environment for the prevention of potential adverse health effects. The gap within the OSHA Laboratory Standard, i.e. a lack of explanatory language, leaves much open to interpretation regarding fume hood usage with volatile hazardous chemicals. As a result, both the level of safety training and the awareness of good laboratory practices (GLP) for handling volatile hazardous reagents, such as xylene, can become compromised.