Science Help / 2
(From the AC lab manual)
When working in a lab, one must be aware of potential dangers in the environment at all times. Many of the chemicals we work with can be toxic, corrosive, flammable, and dangerous to the environment, and it is extremely important to make sure we minimize the risk of harming ourselves by following these steps when in a lab.
1. Eye Protection is mandatory at all times when in the lab.
a) Plastic safety glasses or goggles must be worn whenever ANYONE in the lab is working with chemicals.
b) Contact Lenses should never be worn in a chemistry laboratory since they can absorb solvent vapors.
c) If a chemical is splashed into the eyes, contact lenses will trap the chemical, worsening the damage that may occur.
d) Students must purchase their own safety glasses and have them available for each lab.
2. Food and drink (this includes water bottles) are not allowed in the lab.
3. Dress appropriately:
a) Closed-toed shoes are mandatory; this means no sandals.
b) Lab coats are recommended to confine loose clothing and protect skin and clothing from spills.
4. All waste must be disposed of properly.
a) Most waste solutions are collected, not put down the drain.
i. Check with your instructor before pouring anything down the drain.
b) Broken glass should be disposed of in the “broken glassware” or “sharp” container.
5. Be aware of all emergency procedures, safety equipment & know how to use them:
a) If you have a chemical spill; even small drops or crystals of a chemical are to be wiped/cleaned up immediately.
b) Know the location of fire extinguisher and fire blanket. Use if needed.
c) Know the location of the eye wash and safety shower station. If a chemical splashes into the eye, the eye should be flushed until the chemical is removed. A chemical splash on the skin should be washed off immediately with plenty of water.
d) Know the location of the nearest first aid kit.
e) All accidents and injuries must be reported to the lab instructor immediately.
f) Know the location of the nearest exit.
g) Turn off all power sources before leaving the lab.
6. Use preventative measures:
a) Never return unused chemicals to the reagent bottle. Know how much you need and only take the suggested amounts. Always put lids back on bottles.
b) Always label beakers/flasks with the chemical contained inside them.
c) Any experiment involving the evolution of pungent odours or fumes must be carried out in a fume hood. Use protective gloves if needed.
d) Avoid pouring liquids above eye level.
e) Never look down into a test tube that is being heated. While heating a substance in a test tube, make sure that the opening of the test tube is not pointing at anyone.
f) Stored all backpacks, coats, and extra books so they do not create a tripping hazard.
g) Do advance preparation for each experiment, always know the hazards of the chemicals you are using and keep your workspace well-organized and clean.
7. Students are not permitted to work in the lab without an instructor present.
8. Wash your hands, work space, glassware, & equipment before leaving the lab.
9.* Always read the MSDS sheets of the chemicals you will be working with.
Some chemicals are very hazardous and react strongly with others to result in violent reactions that could harm you or other people in the lab.
Alexander College Writing & Learning Centres