Development of Research Laboratory Safety Models in Thailand

Abstract

This article presents findings from a research project on the development of research laboratory safety models. The main objectives of the research are twofold: to develop laboratory safety models, and to study and identify the methods and processes, in order to enhance safety standard in research laboratories in Thailand. Conducted as a research and development (R&D), the research is a sequel to an earlier research project, entitled “Enhancement of Safety Practices in Research Laboratory in Thailand, (ESPReL)”. 23 of the laboratories participated in the ESPReL project were screened through the criteria of collaboration, supportiveness towards the laboratory’s physical improvement, and readiness. Finally, four laboratories were selected to be developed into model labs with seven interrelated safety components: 1) Laboratory safety policy/ management roles and responsibility; 2) chemical inventory and management; 3) waste categorization and management; 4) laboratory facilities and equipment; 5) emergency preparedness and response/ risk management; 6) education and training; and 7) document management. Supported by their own institution as well as the National Research Council, physical improvement of the four model labs was undertaken. The study reveals that the development of the four laboratory safety models are similar in terms of development and outcome, as they were all based upon the same set of seven interrelated safety components. However, their potential and capabilities to become laboratory model vary, depending on the capacity of each laboratory to be a model from laboratory level to university-wide improvement of safety level. The research finding from the study, especially in terms of process and procedure, can be applied to the improvement of other laboratories in the future by complying with the suggestion on the development of seven interrelated safety components and on an overview of the implementation at the national level.