SAFETY IN THE LABORATORY
In Chemistry you will frequently perform laboratory activities.
While no human activity is completely risk free, if you use common
sense and a bit of chemical sense, you will encounter no problems.
Chemical sense is an extension of common sense. Sensible laboratory
conduct won't happen by memorizing a list of rules, any more
than a perfect score on a written driver's test ensures an excellent
driving record. The true "driver's test" of chemical
sense is your actual conduct in the laboratory.
The following safety pointers apply to all laboratory activities.
For your personal safety and that of your classmates, make following
these guidelines second nature in the laboratory. Your teacher
will point out any special safety guidelines that apply to each
activity. If you understand the reasons behind them, these safety
rules will be easy to remember and follow.
#1. Perform laboratory work only when your teacher is present.
Unauthorized or unsupervised laboratory experimenting is not
allowed.
#2. Your concern for safety should begin every day before
the first activity. Always read and think about each laboratory
assignment before starting.
#3. Listen at the start of any lab for any specific cautions
that the teacher may describe for a particular lab activity.
#4. Know the location and use of all safety equipment in your
laboratory. These should include the safety shower, eye wash,
first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and blanket.
#5. Wear an apron and protective glasses or goggles for all
laboratory work. Tie back loose hair and wear shoes (rather than
sandals).
#6. Clear your benchtop of all unnecessary material such as
books and clothing before starting your work.
#7. Check chemical labels twice to make sure you have the
correct substance. Some chemical formulas and names may differ
by only a letter or a number.
#8. You may be asked to transfer some laboratory chemicals
from a common bottle or jar to your own test tube or beaker.
Do not return any excess material to its original container unless
authorized by your teacher.
#9. Avoid unnecessary movement and talk in the laboratory.
#10. Never taste laboratory materials. Gum, food, or drinks
should not be brought into the laboratory.
#11. If you are instructed to smell something, do so by fanning
some of the vapor toward your nose. Do not place your nose near
the opening of the container. Your teacher will show you the
correct technique.
#12. Never look directly down into a test tube; view the contents
from the side. Never point the open end of a test tube toward
yourself or your neighbor.
#13. Any laboratory accident, however small, should be reported
immediately to your teacher.
#14. In case of a chemical spill on your skin or clothing,
rinse the area with plenty of water. If the eyes are affected,
water-washing must begin immediately and continue for 10 to 15
minutes or until professional assistance is obtained.
#15. Minor skin burns should be placed under cold, running
water.
#16. When discarding used materials, carefully follow the
instructions provided.
#17. Return equipment, chemicals, aprons, and protective glasses
to their designated locations.
#18. Before leaving the laboratory, make sure that gas lines
and water faucets are shut off.
#19. If in doubt, ask! |
