Lab SafetyThe following rules exist to

prevent accidents in the lab and keep you safe.

Fire Extinguisher Operation

Raise the nozzle in order to direct the stream of carbon dioxide

Squeeze the handle to begin operation.

Eyewash Fountain

Safety Shower

Use of the FUME HOOD

Broken Glass

DON'T throw broken glassbroken glass into the trash can.

There is a special container for broken glass!

• No UNAUTHORIZED experiments! This is terribly dangerous in unskilled hands.

• When first entering the science room do not touch any chemicals, equipment, or supplies until you are instructed to do so.

• No EATING or DRINKING in the LAB. Assume everything in the lab is toxic.

• DO NOT drink from lab equipment. NOT EVEN distilled water.

Bad Idea #1

Bad Idea #2

Bad Idea #3

• Wear safety glasses when necessary

• Proper lab attire– Tie back long hair– remove dangling jewelry– Roll up long sleeves– Secure baggy clothing– Closed-toed shoes

• Keep hands away from eyes and mouth while using chemicals

• Wash your hands after the lab

Make sure that test tubes are not directed toward yourself or other

persons.

A better technique:

A GOOD PRACTICE: Read the experimental procedure ahead of lab,

NOT as you do the procedure

In a laboratory setting, horseplay, even if good-natured, is absolutely unacceptable.

No pushing; no shoving!

What’s wrong with this picture?

Chemical Hazard Symbols

Flammable – Any substance that will burn if exposed to an open flame.

Explosive – A substance that may explode if exposed to heat or flame.

Toxic/Poison – A substance that can lead to death if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed by the skin.

Chemical Hazard Symbols

Corrosive – A substance that can destroy or burn living tissue and can eat away at other materials.

Irritant - A substance that causes inflammation upon contact with skin or mucous membranes.

Environmental - Substances that are harmful to the environment. They must be disposed of properly, not washed down the drain.

• Stay focused and pay attention to all verbal and written instructions

• Three steps to starting a lab1. Know what to do2. Know what you need3. Start the lab

• Three steps to ending a lab1. Clean all glassware, labware, and equipment2. Return all equipment and supplies3. Clean up around your lab station

Have a Safe Year!