Is it acceptable to leave your lab unlocked and unattended for a few moments while you go to the washroom?

Leaving a lab unlocked and unattended, even for a few moments, poses significant risks. It creates opportunities for unauthorized access to sensitive materials, equipment, or samples, which can lead to potential contamination, theft, or tampering. Laboratory environments often contain hazardous substances or critical data, and safeguarding these from unauthorized individuals is essential for safety and security.

Thus, the best practice is to ensure that the lab is secured whenever it is unattended, regardless of the duration of absence or time of day. Maintaining a strict policy regarding access and security in lab settings is critical to uphold safety standards and protect personnel as well as the integrity of the laboratory environment.