Glove boxes are a common and important piece of equipment in many laboratory and industrial environments. However, while it brings convenience, there are some safety issues that should not be ignored.
First, the risk of gas leakage
Glove box is usually filled with a specific gas to maintain the internal environmental conditions. However, if the seal is not tight, the gas may leak. For example, the leakage of inert gases such as nitrogen may lead to a reduction in local oxygen levels and asphyxiation. There have been cases where the leakage of nitrogen from the glove box was not detected in time and staff fainted due to lack of oxygen after entering the area.
Second, electrical safety hazards
Glove box may be equipped with a variety of electrical equipment, such as lighting, control devices. If the electrical equipment is aging, short-circuited or poorly grounded, it may cause electric shock. In addition, electrical failure may also lead to sparks, in the presence of flammable gases in the environment triggering a fire or even an explosion.
Third, chemical hazards
When handling toxic, hazardous or flammable and explosive chemicals in the glove box, if not operated properly, these chemicals may leak to the outside of the glove box, posing a serious threat to the operator and the surrounding environment. For example, when handling strong corrosive chemicals, once leaked, it may corrode the sealing components of the glove box, further increasing the risk of leakage.
Fourth, the pressure imbalance problem
The pressure inside the glove box needs to be kept within a certain range. If the pressure is too high or too low, it may affect the normal operation of the glove box, or even lead to structural damage. Pressure imbalance may also allow external contaminants to enter the glove box, destroying the experimental conditions or affect product quality.
Fifth, the risk of improper operation
Operators are not professionally trained, are not familiar with the correct use of the glove box and operating procedures, may misuse the equipment, such as forcing open the sealing door, overstretching the gloves, etc., thereby damaging the glove box and causing safety accidents.
In order to ensure the safe use of the glove box, we should regularly inspect and maintain the equipment to ensure its sealing, electrical safety and normal operation of the gas supply system. Operators must receive professional training, strictly follow the operating procedures, and remain vigilant during use, paying attention to possible safety issues at all times.
