Highlights: ergonomics, chemical generators and continuous flow processes, chemical plant fire, and more

A recent topic in ACS's Division of Chemical Health and Safety Listserve was the use of "antifatigue" floor mats in the laboratory.(6,7) Do these floor mats pose a potential tripping hazard, and should they be made of specialized materials due to the potential interactions with the materials that may be encountered? Many antifatigue mats are designed with edges to minimize the tripping hazard; however, one must be aware of how these are positioned and used in the physical space as, if improperly placed, a new tripping hazard may be created. Mats and ergonomic decking come in a variety of materials such that one designing or evaluating the laboratory space can choose the most appropriate material. These ergonomic mats and/or decking can be selected to be antistatic, antislip, and chemically resistant. There are a number of vendors that highlight the pros and cons of their specific solutions; thus, the safety professional will have to do a bit of research to find the appropriate solution for their specific situation.