Lab Safety

Lab Safety

Being in the lab is a privilege that can be taken away. Students and teachers should conduct themselves in a responsible manner to ensure the safety of everyone

General Rules:

• Conduct yourself in a responsible manner and check about medical conditions prior to working in the lab
• Follow all written and verbal instructions. If confused, ask the instructor before proceeding
• Never work alone- an instructor must always be present; experiments must be monitored, unauthorized experiments are prohibited
• Do NOT eat, drink, or chew gum in the lab
• Do NOT smell things directly- always waft
• Be prepared, no horseplay, keep areas clean
• Know where things are located- fire extinguisher, exites, fire alarm, etc.
• Work in well ventilated areas, use fume hood if necessary
• Be alert, proceed with caution, know what to do during an emergency
• Dispose of chemicals properly, read labels and equipment carefully
• Keep hands away from the face, mouth, eyes, nose, and body- always wash hands after experiments
• Be careful with sharp objects- hever catch falling instruments, cut away from body, grasp by the handle

Clothing:

• Wear safety goggles around: chemicals, heat, glassware
• No baggy or loose clothing, open toed shoes, dangling jewelry
• Long Hair must be tied back

Handling Chemicals and Injuries:

• Do not touch, smell, or taste anything unless instructed to
• Always check labels and dispose properly
• Handle chemicals with extreme care- do not drop or spill; hold securely
• Do not touch broken glass without gloves, use tongs or mitts for hot objects
• Never leave a burner unattended
• In case of accidents or injury, report to the instructor