Science Lab Safety Rules

Science is a hands-on laboratory class. Safety in the science classroom should be the top priority for students and their teacher. To ensure a safe science classroom, a list of rules has been developed which must be followed any time you are in the classroom laboratory. Your safety and the safety of others depends on your conduct in the laboratory. Failure to follow the safety rules will result in your being excused from the lab activity and a grade of 0 will be assessed.

  1. NO horseplay will be tolerated!
  2. Be familiar with your lab assignment before the lab begins.
  3. Do not touch any lab equipment, chemicals, or other materials in the laboratory area until you are instructed to do so.
  4. Do not eat, drink, or chew gum in the lab. Do not use laboratory glassware as containers for food or beverages.
  5. Perform only those experiments authorized by the teacher.
  6. Safety goggles may be required for some lab experiments.
  7. Work areas should be kept clean. Bring only needed materials to the lab area. Purses and backpacks should be stored in the classroom area.
  8. Be alert and proceed with caution at all times in the lab. Report any unsafe conditions to the teacher immediately.
  9. Dispose of all waste materials properly. Never mix chemicals in the sinks. Sinks should be used only for water and those solutions designated by the teachers. All other materials are to be disposed of in the garbage can.
  10. Notify the teacher of any broken glass or spills. Don't clean it up yourself.
  11. Experiments must be monitored at all times. You will be assigned a lab station at which to work. Do not wander around the room distracting other students or interfering with other students' work.
  12. Dress properly during a lab activity. Long hair, dangling jewelry, and loose clothing are a hazard in the lab. Long hair should be tied back. Jewelry and loose clothing must be secured. For some activities, shoes must completely cover the foot.
  13. Report any accident (spills, breakage, etc) or injury (cut, burn, etc.) to the teacher immediately, no matter how trivial it may appear.
  14. Never taste, touch, or smell any chemicals in the lab.
  15. Never use chipped or broken glassware in the lab.
  16. Clean up your station at the end of each lab activity as your teacher directs. Wash your hands before leaving the lab area.