Personal safety : You would recall that there are mainly three routes through which the harmful substances can enter the human body. These are, direct contact followed by penetration, ingestion and inhalation. By keeping chemicals off the skin, through use of protective equipment, regular washing, etc. you will avoid skin sensitisation, defatting, dermatitis (an industrial disease) and the danger of transferring contaminants to other parts of the body such as the digestive system. A common source of skin contact is through putting coats, cases or bare arms on laboratory benches. Before leaving the laboratory you must always wash your hands after removing your laboratory coat. Here we would like to mention that sharing lab coats is known for transmission of disease and vermins. So we don't recommend sharing lab coats, even with your best friend. Neither should you wear your lab coat while going home.