What is considered good practice for cleaning up large pieces of contaminated glass in a laboratory biohazard spill?

Wearing gloves, a lab coat, and face protection while using a dust pan and tongs is considered good practice for cleaning up large pieces of contaminated glass in a laboratory biohazard spill due to several important safety considerations.

Firstly, personal protective equipment, such as gloves and face protection, reduces the risk of cuts and exposure to any biohazardous materials that may be present on the glass. This is crucial in a lab environment where potential biological agents could pose significant health risks. A lab coat adds an extra layer of protection for the body and clothing against spills and contamination.

Using a dust pan and tongs allows for a safe and effective method to collect glass shards without the hands coming into direct contact with the dangerous materials. This method minimizes the risk of injury and ensures that the contamination does not spread during cleanup.

In contrast, using bare hands can lead to serious injury from sharp edges and may also expose the individual to harmful substances. Vacuum cleaners might not be suitable as they can create aerosols that can spread contamination further, especially if the biohazard material is airborne. Clearing the area and waiting for professional help might be appropriate in some situations but does not actively resolve the immediate safety hazard posed by the broken glass and potentially hazardous materials