Environmental Concerns in the Lab

Keeping the optical laboratory "green" is a growing concern these days. Not only is it a good idea in general, but many jurisdictions are making it a requirement. Chemicals and components, used regularly by labs, must be handled in specific ways to ensure compliance.

The internal lab environment is also an issue. Dust and odors generated by lab equipment cannot be ignored, and worker health is impacted by the placement of the machinery itself. Here, the experts advise on the best ways to safeguard the environment. 

PROBLEM: It's difficult to tell whether an edger is compatible with the environment

SOLUTION: A lot of our customers want to know whether our edgers are environmentally friendly. What we tell them is that our edgers work well with a filtering bag system, through which the water passes as it comes out of the bottom of the machine. The lens material goes into the bag, which then can be disposed of. This system prevents the swarf from getting into the local water.

-Nancy Easton, Briot

PROBLEM: Defining the make-up of all the lab chemicals used is difficult

SOLUTION: Any chemical used in the lab must have a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), which is kept in a manual. The sheets should come automatically from any manufacturer that sells you a chemical product. If it doesn't, you can request it from the supplier. The sheet lists what's in each product and what the appropriate handling procedures are. The sheet also gives the product hazard rating. OHSA requires that employers maintain an MSDS manual and that employees read it and know where it is kept.

-Tracey Morrison, OWC

PROBLEM: Dumping the lab buckets into the sink can result in fines

SOLUTION: Most places do allow edger waste to be returned to the water system by pouring it down the drain; however, some jurisdictions have stricter environmental rules that prohibit this action. Consult your local environmental agency or water authority to determine whether you are permitted to do so. Have a list of chemical ingredients you use handy, and ask about each item specifically.

-Linda Little, WECO International

PROBLEM: Disposing of alloy is problematic

SOLUTION: The most persistent concern of optical laboratories is the disposal of the alloy used to block lenses in the surfacing process. There is a slow and recurrent movement in the United States to ban the use of alloy. The concern is that the lead and cadmium from the alloy and the water that comes into contact with it not be introduced into the water supply. There are systems that filter out those chemicals, which can then be disposed of by a company that specializes in removing hazardous waste. Alternatively, wax is being used in the blocking process by an increasing number of labs because it eliminates the waste disposal problems associated with alloy. There is also an alloy with a higher melting point that does not contain cadmium or lead, but it is more expensive.

-Susan Polson, National Optronics

PROBLEM: Pouring used dye solution down the drain is a potential environmental regulation violation

SOLUTION: In order for it to be acceptable to pour tint solutions down the drain, the dyes must be biodegradable. In the past, it was a challenge to find a dye that met that criterion. Today, however, reputable optical supply companies comply with government regulations, and the most popular dyes on the market are biodegradable.

-Bill Galindo, ODI/Topcon

PROBLEM: Airborne particles and odors pose a hazard

SOLUTION: Certain airborne pollutants can be dangerous to lab workers. It's not a good idea for employees to breathe the dust that is generated when edging polycarbonate, for example, on a regular basis. Also, vapors from the dye unit and other lab chemicals can make people feel sick if they're inhaled regularly. To keep the lab's air clean, proper ventilation is very important. It's a good idea to have a vent over the tint unit. There should be plenty of air space in the lab in general, and those who are exposed to the pollutants on a regular basis would be well advised to wear a mask that filters the air they breathe.

-Vincent Costanzo, Santinelli International

PROBLEM: A poor set-up in the lab can cause problems for lab techs

SOLUTION: A good work environment is possible with a bit of thought to the ergonomic considerations in the lab. Placing equipment at the right height can eliminate or alleviate physical strain. If the equipment is too high, the lab worker should stand on a step that brings the person to the correct level to operate the equipment comfortably. Alternatively, many manufacturers will provide a stand or separate unit for the equipment to rest on in order for it to be at a height that is comfortable for operation.

-Michael Urban, Gerber Coburn EB

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