Lab coats act as a first line of defense against potential exposure to hazardous materials. In nanotechnology, researchers often work with toxic nanomaterials that can easily penetrate the skin or be inhaled. The specialized material of the lab coat prevents these particles from coming into direct contact with the skin. Additionally, lab coats help to prevent the unintentional transfer of nanoparticles outside the laboratory, thereby protecting not just the wearer but also the broader environment.