• Metal printer SLM Solution 280
• Metal printer Concept Laser M3

General Lab Rules

Lab Access:

• Only authorized personnel may enter the lab.
• Visitors must be always accompanied by authorized personnel.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times when inside the lab.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Safety glasses with side shields or full face shields are mandatory at all times.
• Wear flame-resistant lab coats or aprons when working with high-temperature equipment.
• Gloves should be worn when handling raw materials, powders, and finished parts.
• Appropriate footwear (closed-toe, non-slip shoes) must be worn.
• Respirators may be required when working with fine metal powders or in areas with insufficient ventilation.

Material Handling:

• Always handle metal powders, including waste, with care. Follow the material's safety data sheets (SDS) for proper handling instructions.
• Ensure that all powders are properly contained and cleaned up immediately if spilled.
• Never eat, drink, or smoke inside the lab.
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling materials, especially powders and solvents.

Equipment Safety and Operation

Metal 3D Printers:

• Ensure the printer is properly calibrated and cleaned before use. Follow the manufacturer guidelines (always beside the machine) and lab protocols.
• Operators must be trained before using any metal printers.
• Never bypass safety interlocks or guards.
• Always check for hot surfaces and moving parts before approaching the machine.
• Do not open the printer during operation, especially if the chamber is pressurized or contains hazardous materials.

CNC Machines and Material Processing Tools:

• Ensure that workpieces are securely fixed before starting the machine.
• Always inspect tools for damage before use. Damaged tools should be replaced or repaired immediately.
• Never leave the machine running unattended.
• Always keep hands, tools, and clothing clear of moving parts.
• Follow all machine-specific operating procedures.

Ventilation and Dust Control:

• Ensure the lab is equipped with an adequate ventilation system to capture harmful fumes and dust produced during metal printing and processing.
• Ensure that the dust extraction system is in place and working effectively.
• Do not attempt to clean or repair ventilation systems unless properly trained.

Hazardous Materials and Waste

Metal Powders:

• Keep metal powders in their designated storage containers when not in use. Always handle powders in well-ventilated areas and use fume hoods if available.
• Label all containers of hazardous materials with appropriate hazard symbols and handling instructions.
• Dispose of metal powder waste according to the department waste disposal protocols.

Chemical Safety:

• Properly store chemicals used in the lab according to their compatibility and safety guidelines.
• Ensure that all chemicals are labeled correctly and stored in the appropriate containers.
• Always read the SDS for chemicals before handling them.

Emergency Procedures

Emergency Shutdown:

• Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency stop buttons for each piece of equipment.
• Know how to shut down machines safely in case of an emergency.

Fire Safety:

• Know the location of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and evacuation routes.
• Only use fire extinguishers on fires that you are trained to handle. For larger fires, immediately evacuate the area.
• If working with flammable materials, ensure that fire suppression equipment is available.

First Aid:

• Know the location of the first aid kit and ensure it is stocked with necessary supplies.
• In case of injury, follow the appropriate first aid procedures or contact emergency medical services.

Accident Reporting:

• Report all accidents, near-misses, or unsafe conditions immediately to the laboratory administrator.
• Ensure that all accidents are recorded and reviewed for future safety improvements.

Training and Documentation

Training Requirements:

• All personnel must complete safety training and be familiar with lab-specific procedures before operating equipment.
• Training must be refreshed annually or whenever new equipment or materials are introduced.

Lab Documentation:

• Keep an up-to-date log of equipment maintenance and calibration.
• Document all safety inspections and hazard assessments.
• Maintain a lab-specific risk assessment and emergency response plan.

Access to the laboratory is strictly limited to students, staff, and other individuals who have been granted prior authorization.

All authorized users must complete the required safety training and comply with applicable regulations before entering the facility.

Contact the laboratory administrator to gain access to the laboratory with your access card.