Cosmetic features such as new cabinets, counter tops, lighting, and paint are easy to spot. What often goes unnoticed, however, are the fire-safety features which are provided as a part of the same renovation project. The following describes some of the more common fire-safety features which may be present in each laboratory and how they afford protection to you and to your research materials should a fire emergency occur.
Some fire doors have a vision panel of wired glass.
Fire doors are designed to remain in the closed position at all times. Should a fire occur in a laboratory, a closed corridor fire door will help contain the fire and smoke to the laboratory and will allow you and your co-workers to exit the area safely. In all laboratory renovations, at least one flammable liquid storage cabinet is provided. Additional cabinets can be added to accommodate larger quantities of flammables which may be used in the laboratory. These cabinets are typically constructed of heavy gauge steel, labeled or identified as flammable liquid storage cabinets, designed with a raised sill to contain any spills within the cabinet and have a three-point latch to keep the doors closed.