Safety
All EOF users must review the general safety rules for ACMAL.
EOF Safety
Fume Hood
A fume hood is an enclosure designed for the handling of volatile and flammable chemicals. The primary function is creating a flow of air from the laboratory, through the adjustable face (sash) of the fume hood, and to the outside of the building. This air flow removes any volatile or toxic fumes away from the user’s breathing area, creating a safer working environment. The sash also gives added protection by separating the user from aerosols, spills, and small explosions.
Precautions
- Before using the fume hood for the containment of toxic or volatile substances, always checking whether the hood is functioning properly.
- Determine where the sash should be positioned for optimum containment using the hood survey sticker.
- Ensure that the fume hood vents are open and free from obstruction.
- Place the chemical container deep enough within the hood to ensure that no toxic fumes escape.
- Extend only hands and arms into the hood.
- Do not lean on the sash.
- Clean the fume hood after use.
- Do not use the fume hood for storage.
SEM/TEM Radiation
SEMs can produce x-ray radiation as a result of high energy electrons interacting with the metal in the column. The amount of x-ray radiation produced depends largely upon the accelerating voltage applied to the electron beam. It will be greater for accelerating voltages attainable with the TEM (> 100 kV). All facility SEMs and TEMs have internal shielding and interlock systems, however, which protect the user from x-ray radiation. Michigan state law requires that these systems be inspected and maintained regularly, so that users need not take additional precautions during operation.
Cleanliness
All EOF users must review the general cleanliness rules for ACMAL.
Standard Operating Procedures
All EOF users must review the general SOPs available for ACMAL.
EOF SOPs
Available training, either as a course or an online module, is noted for each EOF instrument.