If the coat becomes contaminated, it should be removed immediately. Laboratory coats should be made of cotton or synthetics such as Tyvek or Nomex. Garments should not be made of rayon and polyester due to their combustibility. Coats should be laundered frequently. It is good practice to remove coats whenever leaving the laboratory so potential chemical or biological contamination is not spread to areas outside the laboratory.
Aprons can provide better protection from corrosive and irritating liquids than laboratory coats.
These are generally made of rubber or plastic and resist penetration better than woven fabric. Aprons should be cleaned periodically. Normally, special work shoes are not required. However, open-toed or cloth shoes are unacceptable in the laboratory. While leather shoes offer protection in case of spills, leather readily absorbs organic liquids.