Laboratory Coats

Laboratory (lab) coats are a critically important to protecting persons working in laboratory and animal care areas. All students, staff members, and faculty should be wearing a lab coat when conducting the following work activities:

• Working in a laboratory
• Handling biological, chemical, or radiological materials and waste
• Handling human blood, tissue, cell cultures, or other potentially infectious materials
• Working with and handling animals
• Handling clinical specimens

In collaboration with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), the following services are available through campus-wide contractual agreements:

Purchasing New Lab Coats

Based on a survey completed by department safety representatives, the top-five preferred styles of lab coats – 100% cotton, splash impervious, cinch cuff, tailored for men/women, and flame retardant/resistant; are available from the following suppliers via e-SHOP:

• VWR International – Contact: Melissa Mazza
• Fisher Scientific – Contact: Kristie Herrick

Laundering Lab Coats

The following supplier is available to assist with laundering needs:

• ImageFIRST Uniform Rental Services – Contact: Samantha Tuttle

This supplier will launder such items as smocks, shop aprons, and cloth overalls. State your specific needs when contacting the supplier.

Getting Help

If you have questions or need help, contact the following:

• For supplier related issues, contact Melinda Sweazey
• For lab concerns, contact EHS Research Safety Group