Laboratory Safety

Safety Showers Safety Eye Washes Emergency Exits Fire Extinguishers Emergency Electrical Cutoff Switch

POISON & Chemicals Do not consume food or water while in the laboratory; never taste chemicals. To smell the contents of a container, use a "wafting" action of the hand.

Plant and Animal Safety Always treat living organisms humanely. Wash your hands after handling animals & plants, especially before eating anything.

Fire Safety The best method of fire fighting is taking precautions to prevent one from occurring in the first place and being prepared if a fire in the lab should occur. Know the location of Safety equipment in the classroom don’t panic smother the fire using the fire blanket or fire extinguisher Confine long hair while working in the laboratory

Using a Fire Extinguisher The average fire extinguisher only operates about 10 seconds. Don't waste it! You must get close to the fire - as close as 5 or 6 feet! To effectively operate an extinguisher, think P-A-S-S. P -- pull the pin A -- aim the hose at the base of the fire S -- squeeze the handle S -- sweep the hose back and forth

Electrical Safety Before connecting equipment to a power source, examine all wiring for electrical defects Make sure that your hands are dry; that the work area is dry. Electricity and water don't mix! Electrical cords should not be frayed or damaged or have wires showing

Safety Goggles Safety goggles protect your eyes from flying debris. They also keep vapors, dust, and splashed chemicals from getting into your eyes. If you should get chemicals into your eyes, go directly to the eyewash fountain and gently flush with water. Report this immediately to your teacher.

Glassware Safety Do not pick up broken glass with bare or unprotected hands. Please report all chipped or broken glass to teacher – think of the next person.

Please remember…. It’s always better to stop and make sure you understand the directions then to be in a dangerous lab situation! Please be safe, not sorry!