Activity
Laboratory Research
Laboratory experimental and research work.
Documents
- 2014
Safe Science: Promoting a Culture of Safety in Academic Chemical Research
This research report examines safety culture in academic chemistry laboratories through incident cases, organisational analysis and experience from other sectors. It addresses leadership, power differences, researcher participation and practical training, recommending integrated hazard analysis, non-punitive reporting and leading indicators rather than reliance on regulatory compliance alone.
- 201119 Oct
Texas Tech University Chemistry Lab Explosion
This case study examines an energetic-material laboratory explosion at Texas Tech University. It analyses synthesis scale-up, mortar-and-pestle handling, eye protection, research-specific training and supervisory oversight. Findings address physical-hazard assessment, written protocols, organisational accountability and missed opportunities to learn from earlier incidents, with recommendations for universities and research funders.
- 2011
Stainless steels - chloride stress corrosion cracking report 2011
Research report examining chloride stress corrosion cracking in austenitic stainless steel through reactor assessments and a literature review. It proposes risk-based inspection refinements, compares penetrant, eddy current and ultrasonic techniques, and evaluates structural fitness for service. The report highlights uncertainty in crack initiation times and limitations of leakage as an indicator.
- 2009Aug
Never underestimate the hazard! — Process Safety Beacon, August 2009
A bulletin describes a fatal laboratory fire during transfer of approximately 2 oz. (60 ml) of t-Butyl Lithium, highlighting hazards from small chemical quantities. It stresses training for sampling, appropriate protective clothing and equipment, emergency equipment familiarity, suitable sample containers and carriers, and safe handover to qualified laboratory personnel.
- Undated
Failure of lifeboat winch on ro-ro passenger ferry P&OSL Calais and behaviour of self-lifting sprag clutch
Investigates involuntary lowering of a lifeboat on P&OSL Calais and related self-lifting sprag clutch failures. Shipboard measurements and laboratory rig tests examine deceleration, lubricant grade and oil level. Incorrect lubricant was the probable cause of the Calais failure, with ambiguous maintenance instructions contributing. The report discusses similar incidents and vessel-specific lubrication instructions.
- Undated
Safe Science: Guide for Laboratory Researchers
This pamphlet outlines researchers’ role in strengthening safety culture in academic laboratories. It recommends experimental hazard analysis recorded in lab notebooks, open safety discussions, participatory inspections and non-punitive reporting of near misses and injuries. It also addresses productivity pressures, lone working, inadequate sleep and seeking support when stress compromises safe work.
- Undated
Safe Science: Guide for University Senior Leaders
This pamphlet outlines how senior university leaders can strengthen laboratory safety culture through visible commitment, adequate resources and institutional policies. It recommends aligning research ambitions with safety capacity, recognising safety in faculty advancement, clarifying responsibilities and prioritising safe laboratory design. It also addresses hazardous chemicals beyond chemistry departments and comprehensive risk management.
- Undated
T2 Laboratories Inc. Reactive Chemical Explosion — T2 Laboratories Inc.
Investigation of the T2 Laboratories explosion in Jacksonville, which killed four and injured 32. It examines runaway reactions during MCMT manufacture, inadequate cooling redundancy, pressure-relief limitations and unrecognised reactive hazards. Laboratory testing supports the analysis, alongside discussion of scale-up, operating procedures, regulatory coverage, engineering education and comparable incidents.