Laboratory Safety Protocols
Laboratory Safety Protocols
Working with peptides and synthetic reagents requires adherence to established safety protocols.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
| Task | Minimum PPE |
|---|---|
| <strong>Peptide synthesis</strong> | Nitrile gloves, safety glasses, lab coat |
| <strong>TFA handling</strong> | Face shield, acid-resistant gloves, fume hood |
| <strong>HF cleavage</strong> | Calcium gluconate gel on standby, dedicated HF hood |
| <strong>HPLC operation</strong> | Standard PPE, awareness of pressurized lines |
| <strong>MS maintenance</strong> | Laser safety goggles (MALDI), high voltage awareness |
Chemical Hazards
Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA)
- Corrosive: Causes severe burns. Use only in fume hood.
- Spill: Neutralize with sodium bicarbonate, absorb with vermiculite
- First aid: Flush with water 15+ minutes, seek medical attention
Hydrogen Fluoride (HF)
- Extreme hazard: Penetrates tissue, binds calcium
- Antidote: Calcium gluconate gel must be within arm's reach
- Buddy system: Never work alone with HF
Waste Management
| Waste Type | Container | Disposal |
|---|---|---|
| <strong>Halogenated solvents</strong> | Amber glass | Licensed hazardous waste |
| <strong>Non-halogenated solvents</strong> | Steel drum | Fuel blending or incineration |
| <strong>Solid resin waste</strong> | Plastic bag | Solid hazardous waste |
| <strong>Aqueous TFA waste</strong> | Plastic carboy | Neutralization, then drain |
See [[Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis]], [[Peptide Science Overview]]