Chemistry Laboratory Safety – Do’s, Don’ts & Symbols

These question-and-answer flashcards summarize critical laboratory safety rules, conduct guidelines, emergency procedures, proper apparel, hygiene practices, chemical handling protocols, and the meaning of common safety symbols.

What utensil should be used to remove a solid reagent from a container?

A spatula or scoopula.

When working with peroxides, why must metal spatulas be avoided?

Metals can react with peroxides and decompose explosively.

How should you hold reagent bottles when pouring from one container to another?

Hold them away from your body.

What is the safe method for heating flammable liquids?

Use a hot-water bath—never an open flame.

In what order should acid and water be mixed?

Always add concentrated acid to water slowly (never water to acid).

What should you do with excess chemicals you have weighed out?

Dispose of them in the proper waste container; do not return them to the stock bottle.

What three actions are forbidden with reagents (regarding personal contact)?

Never touch, taste, or smell reagents directly.

What ventilation device should be used when toxic vapors may be released?

A laboratory chemical (fume) hood.

How far inside the fume hood should chemicals be placed for proper airflow?

At least six inches inside the hood face.

What must be done immediately after any spill, accident, or injury?

Report it to the teacher at once.

What container should be used to carry chemical bottles of 250 mL or larger?

A secondary container or bucket that can hold the full contents.

Why should you never handle wet or overly heavy bottles?

They are more likely to slip and cause spills or breakage.

When lighting a Bunsen burner, what must be absent from the surrounding area?

Flammable solvents.

What is the rule about leaving lit Bunsen burners unattended?

Never leave them unattended.

What should you never attempt to catch in the lab?

A falling object.

Why is hot glassware hazardous even if it looks cool?

Hot and cold glass look identical; you may burn yourself if you touch it.

What device must always replace mouth suction for filling a pipette?

A pipetting device (pipette bulb or pump).

List two prohibited behaviors related to conduct in the laboratory.

Running and engaging in practical jokes or boisterous conduct.

Why are personal audio or video devices banned during lab work?

They distract from safety awareness and instructions.

Where should coats and bags be stored during lab sessions?

In designated storage areas, not on benches or aisles.

What must you do if you have known chemical sensitivities?

Inform your teacher before beginning work.

Name two housekeeping rules for keeping the lab safe and orderly.

Keep the work area neat/clean and never block exits or emergency equipment.

Where should broken glass and sharps be discarded?

In designated broken-glass or sharps containers.

What eye protection is required at all times in the lab?

Chemical splash goggles.

Why are synthetic fingernails discouraged in the lab?

They are made of highly flammable polymers that burn readily.

Give two clothing guidelines for safe lab apparel.

Wear closed-toe shoes and a full-length, long-sleeved lab coat or apron.

How should long hair and loose clothing be managed during experiments?

They should be secured or tied back.

What should you always do before leaving the laboratory regarding PPE?

Remove gloves, lab coat/apron, and goggles and wash your hands.

List three hygiene practices that are prohibited in the lab.

Eating or drinking, applying cosmetics, and using lab glassware as food containers.

What is the first step in any emergency?

Follow the established emergency plan and evacuate via the nearest exit if required.

Name four pieces of emergency equipment you must know how to use.

Fire extinguisher, eye-wash station, safety shower, fire blanket (any four of: extinguishers, alarm pull stations, fire blankets, eye washes, first-aid kits, safety showers).

Before using a chemical, what label check is essential?

Verify that it is the correct substance (check name and concentration).

Why must chemical transfer containers be labeled immediately?

To identify contents, concentration, hazard, date, and user initials for safety.

What does the Safety Clothing symbol remind you to wear?

A lab apron over street clothes.

What hazard does the Corrosive Substance symbol warn of?

Presence of acids or bases that can damage skin, eyes, and clothing.

What precaution does the Dangerous Vapors symbol indicate?

Use a fume hood and avoid inhaling vapors directly; waft to test odors.

What does the Breakage symbol signify?

An activity with increased risk of glass breakage; handle glassware carefully.

What does the Fire symbol alert you to?

Open flames or flammable liquids; secure loose hair/clothing accordingly.

What is indicated by the Disposal symbol?

A substance requires special disposal—follow teacher’s instructions.

What does the Hygiene symbol remind you to do after lab work?

Wash your hands thoroughly.