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Environmental Health & Safety
FSU Laboratory Coat Program
Supporting Safety, Cleanliness, and Compliance in Research Laboratories
The FSU Laboratory Coat Program provides a shared lab coat system for research and teaching laboratories across campus. Through a partnership with Cintas, a professional uniform rental service, we offer a reliable and convenient way to maintain lab safety and hygiene standards.
Key Program Features:
- Community-Based System:
Lab coats are assigned to laboratory spaces, not individuals. This shared model ensures that everyone in the lab has access to clean and compliant coats when needed. - When Lab Coats Are Required:
Lab coats must be worn in all FSU laboratories where hazardous chemicals, radioactive materials, or biohazardous agents are used. - PPE Expectations:
Laboratory personnel must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) based on the specific hazards present in their workspace. - PPE Limitations:
PPE—including lab coats—do not replace engineering controls such as fume hoods, glove boxes, biosafety cabinets, or established safe work practices. - Drop-Off and Pick-Up:
Be familiar with your building’s designated coat drop-off and return locations to help keep the system running smoothly. - Program Eligibility:
This program is available to FSU faculty, staff, and students working in research and teaching laboratories.
Need Additional Coats or Replacements?
If your lab needs more coats or replacements due to increased staffing or changing research needs, contact the Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) Chemical Safety Team to request additional supplies.
| Lab Coat Type | Example | Composition | Primary Protection |
| Poly/Cotton Blend |  |
65–80% Polyester / 20–35% Cotton | Basic protection from minor chemical splashes and general lab use |
| Flame Resistant (FR) |  |
Inherently FR fabrics (e.g., Nomex), or FR-treated cotton | Protection against flash fires, open flames, pyrophoric materials, and large quantities of flammables |
| Biological Barrier |  |
Fluid-resistant synthetic material (e.g., 100% polyester with barrier treatment; sealed cuffs) | Protection from biological hazards including bloodborne pathogens and biohazardous agents |
