Safety Considerations

Experiments = Labs For the purpose of Science class, experiments may often be referred to as “Labs”. The “Lab” or Laboratory where you’ll be performing your experiments, may be in your kitchen, at your kitchen table, outside in your backyard, or a possibility of a variety of areas. Use the term “Lab” to anticipate possibilities of proactively pursuing any and all Safety Practices. This presentation is meant as an introduction to safety in the Lab setting. You may not perform experiments with some of the apparatus mentioned; but you may at some point in time.

Safety Starts with Awareness Begin thinking about Safety by looking at the area where you’re conducting the experiment. Area Keep area organized and clean Label all solutions that may look similar. Gather ALL materials before you begin your experiment. Keep your work are clean. Clean up all spills immediately. Eliminate safety hazards. Be aware of all sources of ignition (i.e. open flames, heat, electrical equipment.)

Safety Starts with Awareness Be aware of the appropriate safety precautions you should take when you are working with or exposed to the following: Corrosive chemicals; Biohazards; Flammable Substances; Toxic Chemicals; Compressed Gases; Reactive Chemicals; Cutting Instruments. Dispose of all waste in a designated container. DO NOT dispose of chemicals, liquids, corrosives, toxics, or other hazardous waste in the “trash can”. Some wastes may need to be segregated from others. Simply “pouring items down the drain” can also be a hazard to your plumbing system. Know what the procedures are before you begin your work.

Guidelines – Glassware Safety Personal Don’t eat, drink, or chew gum in the lab. Wash your hands before and after the lab. Take care of your personal needs before you begin the experiment (i.e. restroom break, phone call/text, etc…) Familiarize yourself with lab expectations and possible outcomes and anticipate a safe reaction to any potential hazard.

Guidelines – Plant Safety Plant Safety Use caution when handling plants. Do not eat or taste any unfamiliar plant or plant parts. If you are allergic to pollen, do not work with plant or plant parts without a gauze face mask.

Guidelines – Glassware Safety Glassware Safety Check for broken, cracked, or chipped glassware. It should be disposed of properly. Do not force glass tubing into rubber stoppers. Clean and air dry all glassware before and after each lab.

Guidelines – Eye Safety Eye Safety Wear your lab safety glasses at all times. Know how to use the emergency eyewash system. If chemicals get into your eyes, flush them out with plenty of water and inform your parent and teacher asap!

Guidelines – Heating Safety Heating Safety Turn off heat sources when they are not in use. Point test tubes away from yourself and others when heating substances are in them. Use the proper procedures when lighting a Bunsen burner (or stove). To avoid burns, do not handle heated glassware or materials directly. Use tongs, test-tube holders, or heat resistant gloves.

Guidelines – Poison Poison Do not mix any chemicals unless directed to do so in a procedure or by your teacher. Inform your teacher (and parent) immediately if you spill chemicals or get any on your skin or in your eyes. Never taste any chemicals or substances unless directed to do so by your teacher. Keep your hands away from your face when working with chemicals.

Guidelines – Animal Safety Animal Safety Handle live animals with care. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, inform your teacher (and parent). Do not bring wild animals into the classroom. Do not cause pain, or discomfort, or injury to an animal. Be sure any animals kept for observations are given the proper food, water and living space. Wear gloves when handling live animals. Always wash your hands after handling any animal.

Guidelines – Electrical Safety Electrical Safety Use care when using electrical equipment. Check all electrical equipment for worn cords or loose plugs before using them. Keep your work area dry. Do not overload electrical circuits.

Guidelines – Clothing Protection Clothing Protection Wear a lab coat, smock, or apron when appropriate. It will help protect your clothing from stains or damage. Tuck in or roll up any clothing that is baggy or may get in the way of your experiment performance.

Guidelines – Fire Safety Fire Safety Tie back long hair and secure loose clothing when working near an open flame. Do not reach across an open flame. Know the location and proper use of fire blankets and extinguishers.

Safety Considerations