Abstract: Utility clamp for use in a laboratory or other environment containing caustic elements. The clamp has a fully-enclosed hinge which is isolated from the environment. The critical hinge components such as the hinge pin and coil spring are internally located in the hinge and are protected from corrosion or attack by agents which might contact the clamp during normal use. A method is also provided for assembling the clamp whereby pre-loaded springs are positioned within the internal cavity to normally bias the jaws of the clamp in an open position relative to each other.