lab safety

Laboratory conduct

Conduct yourself in a responsible manner at all times in the laboratory.

Follow instructions

Follow all written and verbal instructions carefully and ask the instructor if you do not understand any direction.

Work supervision

Never work alone in the laboratory; an instructor must be present.

Touching materials

Do not touch any equipment, chemicals, or materials until instructed.

Food and drink policy

Do not eat food, drink, or chew gum in the laboratory.

Authorized experiments

Perform only those experiments authorized by the instructor.

Laboratory preparation

Be prepared for your work by reading all procedures thoroughly before entering the laboratory.

Horseplay prohibition

Horseplay, practical jokes, and pranks are dangerous and prohibited in the laboratory.

Good housekeeping

Maintain clean and tidy work areas in the laboratory.

Keep aisles clear

Keep aisles clear and push your chair under the desk when not in use.

Safety equipment knowledge

Know the locations and procedures for using all safety equipment in the laboratory.

Alertness and caution

Be alert and proceed with caution at all times in the laboratory.

Hand hygiene

Wash hands with soap and water after performing experiments; keep hands away from face while using chemicals.

Monitoring experiments

Experiments must be personally monitored at all times, and students must stay at their assigned stations.

Fire drill procedures

Know how to respond during a fire drill, such as closing containers and turning off equipment.

Humane treatment of organisms

Handle all living organisms used in the laboratory in a humane manner.

Sharp instrument safety

Carry sharp instruments with tips down, cut away from your body, and do not catch falling instruments.

Goggles requirement

Wear laboratory goggles whenever chemicals, heat, or glassware are used; no exceptions.

Proper lab attire

Dress appropriately for lab activities; long hair must be tied, and loose clothing must be secured.

Accident reporting

Report any accident or injury to the instructor immediately.

Chemical splash response

Flush eyes or skin with running water for at least 20 minutes if exposed to chemicals.

Chemical safety

All chemicals in the laboratory are to be considered dangerous; do not touch, taste, or smell them.

Safe glass handling

Carry glass tubing in a vertical position to minimize breakage; never handle broken glass with bare hands.

Glassware examination

Examine glassware before each use; do not use chipped, cracked, or dirty glassware.

Electrical equipment safety

Report damaged electrical equipment immediately, including frayed cords or loose connections.

Burner safety

Never leave a lit burner unattended and always turn it off when not in use.

Heated container caution

Never look into a container that is being heated.