Eighth Grade STEM Classroom Safety Contract

Students will be doing many lab activities during the school year that may require the use of chemicals, lab equipment and other materials that could pose hazardous if used incorrectly. Safety is the most important factor in doing lab activities. A list of safety rules has been provided to and review by the students. These rules must ALWAYS be followed. Students must return the signed contract before they may do labs. Please read the entire contract and then sign below with your student.

Lab Safety Rules:

  1. Conduct yourself in a responsible manner at all times in the classroom during lab.
  2. Read and follow all instructions. If you are unsure of how to proceed with a direction, ask your teacher before moving on.
  3. DO NOT touch any equipment, chemicals or other material without permission and until told to do so.
  4. Do not perform unauthorized experiments. Follow the directions from the teacher.
  5. DO NOT eat, drink or chew gum. DO NOT use lab glassware as food or beverage containers.
  6. Horseplay, jokes, and pranks are not allowed. To do so will result in serious consequences.
  7. Work areas are to be cleaned and clear before you leave the classroom.
  8. Remain aware of the environment around you. Notify the teacher immediately of any unsafe conditions.
  9. Dispose of chemical waste as instructed by the teacher.
  10. Use the equipment only as directed.
  11. Keep chemicals away from face, eyes, mouth and body. Use proper safety equipment (goggles/aprons).
  12. Always monitor your experiment. Do NOT visit other groups to see what they are doing or speak to other groups.
  13. Know the location of all safety equipment.
  14. Know what to do during a fire drill during lab time.
  15. Dress properly for the lab. Pull long hair back. You may want to leave jewelry at home. Loose clothing (especially sleeves) can be a hazard. Be cautious.
  16. Report ALL accidents to the teacher immediately. Do not panic.
  17. If you or your partner is hurt, loudly call the teacher’s name. This includes getting something in your eyes or mouth. Do not panic.
  18. Do not taste or smell any chemicals at any time.
  19. NEVER return chemicals to their original container.
  20. NEVER take anything out of the classroom.
  21. NEVER handle broken glass. Immediately notify the teacher and he/she will clean it up.
  22. Wash hands after all experiments involving animals or chemicals.
  23. Carry glass containers carefully, using two hands.
  24. If using the hot glue gun, do NOT touch the tip under any circumstances! Only use the hot glue gun with permission and for the period of time needed.

Agreement:

I, ______(student) have read and agree to follow all of the safety rules set forth by this contract. I understand that I must obey these rules to insure my own safety and the safety of others. I am aware that any violation of this contract that results in unsafe conduct or misbehavior on my part, may result in my being removed from the classroom, a zero for the assignment, and/or other disciplinary action.

Dear Parent/Guardian,

We would like you to be informed of the safe science practices we expect our students to follow. With everyone’s cooperation, we can prevent most lab accidents. Please read all of the rules above. No student will be permitted to participate in lab activities without your signature and the student’s. Your signature indicates that you have read the contract and are aware of the measures taken to insure your student’s safety in the classroom and you will help us to make a safe environment for your student by instructing your student to follow these rules and procedures.

Parent Signature: ______Date:______

Parent’s name (printed):______

This safety contract is a modification of one found at: