This document defines the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements for laboratory personnel engaged in the handling, reconstitution, aliquoting, and storage of synthetic research-grade peptide compounds.
Gloves
Standard handling: Nitrile gloves (minimum 0.1mm thickness) are the standard requirement for peptide handling
DMSO handling: Butyl rubber or thick nitrile gloves — DMSO penetrates standard nitrile rapidly; double-gloving with nitrile is an acceptable minimum where butyl rubber is unavailable
Change frequency: Change gloves between handling different compounds; change immediately if torn, punctured, or contaminated
Compatibility: Verify glove chemical compatibility with any non-aqueous solvents before use
Eye Protection
Safety spectacles providing side protection are the minimum requirement for all peptide handling
Chemical splash goggles are required when handling concentrated acid solutions (e.g. acetic acid preparation) or when using DMSO
Face shields may be required for bulk solvent handling — assess per local risk assessment
Respiratory Protection
General peptide handling in a ventilated laboratory: respiratory protection is not routinely required
Handling fine lyophilised powders in an unenclosed environment: FFP2 or FFP3 respirator recommended
Handling volatile solvents (acetic acid, DMSO) without adequate ventilation: appropriate respiratory protection required — refer to solvent SDS
Laboratory Coat
A lab coat is mandatory PPE for all laboratory work involving chemical compounds. Synthetic or chemical-resistant materials are preferred over cotton for solvent handling. Change lab coats regularly and do not wear contaminated lab coats outside the laboratory.
Footwear
Closed-toe footwear is mandatory in all laboratory environments handling chemical compounds. No sandals, open shoes, or high heels.
PPE Inspection & Replacement
Inspect PPE before each use. Replace gloves showing any signs of degradation, discolouration, or physical damage. Replace safety spectacles with scratched or damaged lenses. Maintain PPE in a clean, dry storage location away from chemical exposure.
