What should you do if you notice a colleague is not following safety protocols?

Reporting the behavior to your instructor or supervisor is the appropriate action because safety protocols are in place to protect everyone in the laboratory. When a colleague is not adhering to established safety measures, there is a potential risk not just to themselves but to all individuals in the lab. Instructors and supervisors have the training and authority to address such situations appropriately and can implement corrective measures to ensure a safe working environment.

Ignoring the issue compromises safety and can lead to accidents or injuries that could have been prevented. Confronting a colleague directly may lead to conflict, and it’s often not the most effective means of ensuring compliance with safety policies, as it can create a tense atmosphere that hinders cooperation. Advising them in a casual manner might be well-intentioned, but it may not convey the seriousness of the situation or prompt immediate corrective action. A formal report to a person in authority is the most effective way to ensure that safety protocols are upheld and that all individuals in the lab are protected.