The prep lab is sectioned off from other parts of the lab. There are many reasons for this- noise from the air scribe, dirt and dust kicked up from cleaning fossils, and water spray from the rock saws are the top reasons, but there are many more. Please be respectful of all the varied kinds of projects happening in the lab. If you are using air scribes or ventilation units, or any other noisy equipment, please close the doors to the kitchen and the main room. This helps preserve a clean and quiet workspace for other workers.
When a employee (volunteer or salaried) is finished for the day, it is expected that they will clean up their workspace, and put the specimen in a cabinet or some other prearranged storage location. There are 2 storage cabinets, locate near the sandbox, for specimens that are actively being prepped. Air scribes, hoses, containers of abrasive powders and any other tools used should be put back in their proper place. Hand tools that do not hang on the pegboard will have a drawer in the organizer located next to the electrical outlet. Keep all microscopes covered while not in use. Wiping down your workspace with a damp towel should be the last step.
The prep lab is where most of the lab's PPE, chemical segregation and ventilation equipment is located. For more information on this equipment, see the Health and Safety section.