A Call for Increased Focus on Reproductive Health within Lab Safety Culture

J Am Chem Soc. 2021 Aug 18;143(32):12422-12427. doi: 10.1021/jacs.1c03725. Epub 2021 Aug 6.

Abstract

The approach to reproductive health and safety in academic laboratories requires increased focus and a shift in paradigm. Our analysis of the current guidance from more than 100 academic institutions' Chemical Hygiene Plans (CHPs) indicates that the burden to implement laboratory reproductive health and safety practices is often placed on those already pregnant or planning conception. We also found inconsistencies in the classification of potential reproductive toxins by resources generally considered to be authoritative, adding further confusion. In the interest of human health and safe laboratory practice, we suggest straightforward changes that institutions and individual laboratories can make to address these present deficiencies: Provide consistent and clear information to laboratory researchers about reproductive health and normalize the discussion of reproductive health among all researchers. Doing so will promote safer and more inclusive laboratory environments.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Hazardous Substances / adverse effects*
  • Hazardous Substances / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Laboratories*
  • Occupational Health*
  • Organic Chemicals / adverse effects*
  • Organic Chemicals / chemistry
  • Pregnancy
  • Research Personnel*
  • Safety Management*
  • United States
  • United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Substances

  • Hazardous Substances
  • Organic Chemicals