Assessing and Enhancing Base Bath Safety Culture Through Student-Led Initiatives in an Academic Research Environment

Abstract

Base baths, which typically employ strong bases dissolved in alcohols, are frequently used to clean laboratory glassware but present significant fire, chemical, and handling hazards when improperly prepared or maintained. This work evaluates prior awareness, documentation practices, and daily use of base baths within an academic research environment. It seeks to improve safety education on users’ knowledge and behaviors. Initial surveys revealed knowledge gaps regarding base bath fire risks, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper secondary containment measures, and improper labeling and documentation practices. In response, standardized training materials, safety briefings, and a formal standard operating procedure were developed and distributed through departmental seminars and interactive training sessions. Follow-up surveys demonstrate improved recognition of proper base bath preparation, increased awareness of appropriate spill/splash response, more precise identification of associated fire hazards, and greater confidence in working with base baths. The reported use of labeling, lids, secondary containment, and appropriate PPE increased following these safety interventions. Collectively, these results indicate that structured, low-barrier safety programming combined with accessible written guidance measurably improved hazard recognition and risk mitigation during handling base baths. This framework provides a practical model for strengthening the chemical safety culture through student-led initiatives focused on high-risk cleaning practices, which are standard in research laboratories and may be adapted to other commonly overlooked laboratory hazards.