Work safety in plastination

Abstract

In this article, information is given on potential physical and health hazards in the steps of the silicone cold temperature method, often referred to as “S 10 Standard Method.” The main potential hazards related to plastination, as well as recommended measures to effectively avoid explosion and health hazards are discussed. Some specialty chemicals pose chronic health hazards. Exposure to these chemicals can be avoided by standard laboratory hygiene, that is wearing personal protective equipment like safety goggles and protective gloves. Inhalation hazard, for example when working at open dehydration containers or when opening a gas curing box, is preferentially avoided by the action of an appropriate ventilation system. Acetone is the standard solvent used for dehydration and defatting of the specimens to be plastinated. Like for other flammable liquids, explosion protection must be considered when handling acetone. The concentration of acetone vapour in the air must be kept below the lower explosion limit through appropriate room or workplace ventilation. Furthermore, all potential sources of ignition should be removed from the explosion hazard zone. If electrical devices need to be operated inside the explosion hazard zone, they need a special design and approval. The conditions covered by this approval can be found on the identification plate of the individual device.