Is it acceptable to work alone after hours in a familiar lab?

Working alone after hours in a laboratory is generally deemed unsafe due to the risks involved, even in familiar environments. Laboratories can present various hazards, such as the potential for exposure to chemical spills, equipment malfunctions, or other emergencies that could arise without immediate assistance. The presence of a colleague or supervisor is crucial to ensure safety protocols can be enacted effectively, and to provide support in case of accidents or unexpected incidents. Thus, the practice of working alone is discouraged, emphasizing that safety should always be a priority in laboratory settings.