I'm not taking Physics, but I am taking Chemistry, and apparently the Co-op Bookshop will be selling lab coats in the Chemistry courtyard during Week 1, on:
Monday 10am-4pm, Tuesday 10am-2pm, Thursday 10am-2pm!
The e-mail I received also said that glasses can be purchased during the first lab session we have, so I assume it will be the same for Physics.
You need to wear lab coats in the Chem labs now, it was made mandatory in S2 2007.
From an e-mail:
From 2008, laboratory coats must be worn in all laboratories in the School of Chemistry. Students who show up for their lab classes without a lab coat will not be permitted to remain in the lab.
So, make sure you purchase a lab coat BEFORE your first prac class, and remember to bring it along.
The Co-op Bookshop will be selling lab coats in the Chemistry Courtyard (just outside Chemistry Lecture Theatres 1&2) at the following times: