Lab coats are protective garments designed to protect the wearers from direct exposure to dangerous chemicals and infectious materials. Lab coats are primarily used by medical professionals, research chemists and others who must work around hazardous materials in a laboratory setting. Most lab coats are constructed from tightly-woven cotton, cotton/polyester blends or disposable paper cloth.

Although some may argue that lab coats only serve to keep doctors from being confused with patients, they actually serve several vital purposes. Should a dangerous chemical or an infectious sample splash on a lab coat, the wearer's skin is mostly protected by the tight weave construction. If lab coats become saturated, however, they will lose their effectiveness and must be immediately removed. Lab coats must never be cleaned in home washing machines or general purpose laundromats. Only specialists in hazardous waste cleaning techniques should handle dirty lab coats.

Another important function of lab coats is protection from fire. Although most lab coats are not designed to be flameproof, they can be quickly removed to isolate the flames.

Like any other safety equipment, lab coats must be worn properly in order to provide any real benefit. Every snap, button or zipper on a lab coat should be used--an open lab coat is an invitation for stray spills. Sleeves should also extend past the wrists, not rolled up for comfort or ventilation. Some lab coats have openings for access to pants pockets, but this can compromise the wearer's safety. Dirty hands can transfer dangerous or infectious agents through openings in the lab coats themselves.

Lab coats can also be made from disposable materials like Tyvex. Hospitals and laboratories routinely order disposable lab coats and other coveralls in bulk from approved contractors. Lab coats made from a blend of polyester and cotton should not have less than a 35% cotton content for maximum benefit. 100% cotton lab coats may be more durable and launderable, but most non-disposable lab coats rarely last more than a year in regular use. A severely stained or torn lab coat is a hazard and should be replaced immediately.