Textile chemistry and textile processing laboratories are essential environments for textile product research and development, but they also pose hazards that require rigorous precautions. Among the most common risks is handling chemicals used in the textile industry, such as dyes, solvents, and finishing chemicals, which can be contaminants, corrosive, and flammable, presenting risks of poisoning and fire. Textile processing laboratories also require proper ventilation, as a lack of appropriate ventilation in these environments can accumulate toxic vapors in the air. The most relevant risks and hazards of using textile chemistry laboratories include using equipment such as dyeing autoclaves under pressure and high temperature; drying ovens like furnaces/lab stenters; cylinders of squeezing, calenders, and others, capable of causing severe accidents. These laboratories also generate or handle solid waste and effluents containing, heavy metals to pathogens (e.g., from industrial sludge). It is essential to adopt rigorous safety measures in textile chemistry laboratories, including using personal protective equipment (PPE), proper training of workers, effective ventilation systems, and safe waste disposal protocols. Good laboratory work practices not only reduce risk but also promote better research; more accurate results; and better data. Therefore, this study aimed to map the risks and hazards of textile processing laboratories with a view to accident prevention and formalizing a protocol for good practices.

This study investigates the development of a sustainable flame-retardant treatment for cotton fabrics using a hybrid coating composed of chitosan, phytic acid, APTES, and eggshell powder at concentrations of 2% and 4%, applied in one and two cycles. FTIR confirmed the deposition of the organic–inorganic layer through the appearance of characteristic bands. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/dTGA) revealed enhanced thermal stability for all treated samples, with increased char yield and a shift in the main cellulose degradation peak. Vertical flammability tests demonstrated that all coated fabrics achieved self-extinguishing behavior within 12 s, meeting NFPA 701 criteria. The 2% eggshell formulation with two applications (S2%-II) exhibited the best balance between flame retardancy and mechanical performance. Tensile tests indicated improved fiber cohesion for treated samples, while SEM micrographs confirmed uniform coating deposition and particle integration. Colorimetric analysis showed that the treatment did not cause a significant change in the natural color of the cotton. Although washing resistance remains a limitation due to the natural origin of the components, the samples remained stable over time without microbial growth or staining, suggesting potential for upholstery and covering fabrics not subjected to domestic washing. The results highlight the feasibility of using agro-industrial waste to create eco-friendly flame-retardant finishes for cotton textiles.