Laboratories can be very cold environments. This can make working in them difficult, and can also affect your experiments. However, there are some important reasons why laboratories might be kept at a low temperature, and in this article, we’ll outline some of these, and give you some tips as to how you can stay warm in your own lab.
Temperature Control
Many experiments need to be conducted at a specific temperature. For example, some chemical reactions need to be conducted at low temperatures to prevent them from happening too quickly or too violently. Other experiments need to be conducted at high temperatures to speed up the reaction process. By keeping the laboratory at a constant temperature, it is easier to control the conditions of experiments. This is one of the main reasons that the temperature in labs is kept low.
Equipment Cooling
Laboratories are also kept cold to help keep lab equipment cool. Many types of laboratory equipment produce heat, which can affect how the equipment functions. For example, some types of chromatography equipment produce a lot of heat, but need to be kept cool to maintain their performance. By keeping the laboratory at a cooler temperature, it is easier to maintain the performance of the equipment.
Sample Preservation
Some samples need to be kept at low temperatures to preserve them. For example, biological samples may need to be stored in a freezer to prevent degradation. Keeping the laboratory at a cooler temperature makes preserving the integrity of these samples easier.
Safety
Another reason why laboratories are kept cold is to help prevent accidents. As certain chemicals are very reactive at higher temperatures, keeping laboratories at cooler temperatures can reduce the risk of explosions or fires. Additionally, some laboratory equipment can malfunction if it gets too hot, posing a potential safety risk.
Tips for Staying Warm
While keeping a laboratory cold is highly beneficial, it’s also important to stay warm while working in cold environments. Here are some tips for maintaining a comfortable body temperature while you work:
– Dress in layers: Wearing layers of clothing can help to trap heat and keep you warm. Make sure to layer up in PPE or wear many layers of clothing under your PPE.
– Wear insulated gloves: If you’re working with cold samples or equipment, wearing insulated gloves can help to keep your hands warm.
– Use a space heater: If your laboratory allows it, using a space heater can help to warm up the space. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines when using a space heater.
– Take breaks: If you’re feeling too cold, take a short break to warm up. Step outside for a few minutes or grab a cup of hot tea or coffee.
– Stay active: Moving around can help to generate heat and keep you warm. Take short breaks to stretch or walk around the laboratory.
In conclusion, laboratories are kept cold for several reasons, including temperature control, equipment cooling, sample preservation, and safety. While it’s important to maintain a cooler temperature in the laboratory, it’s also important to stay warm while working. By following these tips, you can stay warm and comfortable while working in a cold laboratory. At Techmate, we have appropriate equipment to keep you warm in the lab whilst allowing you to conduct experiments properly. If you’re looking for a lab product, you can either look through our catalogue or contact us so that we can help you find one that is most suitable for your needs.
