Laboratory Safety Rules and Procedures

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering laboratory safety rules, proper equipment usage, emergency protocols, and chemical handling procedures.

Student Safety Contract

A safety agreement that must be signed by both the student and a parent or guardian before participating in laboratory activities, with one copy kept in the science notebook as a constant reminder.

Fume Hood

A well-ventilated laboratory enclosure used when working with volatile substances or poisonous vapors; users must never place their head inside it.

Code One, Code One

The emergency phrase that must be yelled out immediately if a student or lab partner is hurt to quickly get the instructor's attention.

20-Minute Emergency Flush

The minimum required duration for continuously flushing eyes or skin with running water at an eyewash station or safety shower following a chemical splash.

Mercury Thermometers

Temperature-measuring instruments containing mercury, which must never be touched if broken; the instructor must be notified immediately.

Wafting

The proper physical technique demonstrated by the instructor for safely smelling chemical vapors in the laboratory.

Acid Dilution Rule

The procedure requiring strong acids to always be added to water while swirling or stirring, taking caution for heat produced (especially with sulfuric acid).

Pipet Pump or Rubber Bulb

The tools required to draw liquids into a pipet, as mouth suction is strictly prohibited.

Non-vented Safety Goggles

Specially marked eye protection required for students wearing contact lenses to provide adequate protection during laboratory activities.

Fire Drill Protocol

The required procedure during a lab fire drill, which includes closing containers and turning off gas valves, fume hoods, and electrical equipment.

Glass Disposal Container

The designated container where broken or waste glassware must be placed after being cleaned up with a brush and dustpan.

Distilled Water

The only liquid permitted in wash bottles, used exclusively for tasks like rinsing glassware/equipment or adding water to containers.

Thermal Glass Testing

The procedure of checking whether glass or apparatus is hot by bringing the back of your hand close to it before touching, as hot and cold glass appear visually identical.

Insulating Pad

A protective pad placed underneath hot apparatus to prevent direct placement on the laboratory desk surface.

Chemical Waste Disposal

The safety procedure requiring waste container labels to be checked twice and materials disposed of in designated waste containers, never mixed in sink drains.

Sharp Instruments Safety Protocol

The requirement to carry sharp tools with tips/points pointing down and away, cut away from the body, grasp only by handles, and never attempt to catch falling sharp objects.