Lab Safety and WHMIS/GHS Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering lab safety, PPE, emergency procedures, and WHMIS/GHS pictograms based on the lecture notes.

WHMIS (GHS)

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System; Canada's hazard communication standard using Globally Harmonized System (GHS) pictograms and Safety Data Sheets.

GHS pictograms

Standardized hazard symbols used on labels and SDS to indicate hazard type (e.g., flammable, toxic).

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

A document listing hazard information for a chemical, including product identifier, hazard pictograms, signal word, hazard statements, precautionary statements, and supplier.

Product Identifier (SDS)

The product name or code used on the SDS to identify the chemical.

Hazard Statement

A standardized phrase describing the nature and degree of a chemical’s hazard.

Precautionary Statement

Recommended measures to minimize risk (handling, storage, disposal, PPE).

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards (goggles, gloves, lab coat, closed-toe shoes, etc.).

Eye protection

Goggles or safety glasses worn to protect the eyes during experiments.

Lab coat / Apron

Protective outerwear to shield skin and clothing from spills.

Gloves

Protective hand coverings used when handling chemicals or hot equipment.

Closed-toe shoes

Footwear that protects toes from spills and broken glass.

Tie back long hair

Long hair must be tied back to prevent contact with flames or chemicals.

Wafting

Safe method to smell odors by fanning air toward the nose, not sniffing directly.

No eating or drinking in lab

Eating or drinking is prohibited in lab areas to avoid ingesting chemicals.

No pipetting by mouth

Do not pipette by mouth; use proper pipetting devices or bulbs.

Broken glass container

Special container for disposing of broken or damaged glassware.

Eye wash station

Facility to rinse eyes quickly in case of chemical splash.

Safety shower

Emergency shower used to rinse off chemical spills on the body.

Fire blanket

Fire-resistant blanket used to smother flames; typical size is 1.2m x 1.2m; dispose after use.

Fire extinguisher

Device used to extinguish small fires; follow instructor guidance during use.

Bunsen burner safety

Light with a flint lighter, keep blue flame, do not leave unattended, stand, maintain a safe distance from flammables (about 30 cm), allow to cool before storing.

Gas cylinder hazard

Compressed gas container that may explode if heated; store in a cool, dry, ventilated area and avoid temperature changes.

Flammable hazard symbol

GHS pictogram (flame) indicating flammable substances require careful handling.

Oxidizer hazard symbol

GHS pictogram (flame over circle) indicating oxidizers; ventilate, store separately, and reduce dust.

Health hazard symbol

GHS pictogram indicating carcinogenic, mutagenic, reproductive toxins, or respiratory sensitizers.

Skull and crossbones symbol

GHS pictogram indicating acute toxicity; may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed, or in contact with skin.

Biohazard symbol

GHS symbol indicating hazards from living organisms or biological materials; requires training and containment.

Corrosion symbol

GHS pictogram for corrosive substances that damage skin, eyes, and metals.

Exclamation mark symbol

GHS pictogram for irritants or less severe hazards; may indicate harmful effects.

Exploding bomb symbol

GHS pictogram for explosive or self-reactive hazards; store separately.

Environment symbol

GHS pictogram for hazards to the environment; dispose of properly.

Emergency procedures

Know exits, safety devices, and how to report injuries or damaged equipment during emergencies.

Waste disposal

Dispose of chemicals and waste according to instructions and designated containers (not sink unless directed).

Lab safety contract

Agreement to follow safety rules; typically requires signature and parental consent.