What should you do when leaving the lab with your lab coat?

Leaving your lab coat in the lab is the correct choice because lab coats are typically considered personal protective equipment (PPE) that should be left in the lab environment to avoid contamination and exposure to hazardous substances. Lab coats are designed to protect the wearer from spills, splashes, and other potentially harmful agents, and taking them out of the lab can increase the risk of contaminating other areas, such as personal spaces, and inadvertently exposing others to hazardous materials.

Additionally, lab coats often need to be laundered properly in accordance with specific protocols to maintain safety and hygiene standards. By keeping the lab coat in the lab, it can be cleaned and maintained under controlled conditions, ensuring that it remains free from contamination when used in future experiments or procedures. Therefore, it's essential to handle lab coats according to your institution's safety guidelines, which often advise leaving them in the designated area within the lab for proper care and cleaning.