mi lab safety

Rule 1: What is the primary purpose of all safety rules?

To ensure the safety of all in the laboratory.

Rule 2: What kind of conduct is mandatory in the lab?

Appropriate, responsible conduct at all times.

Rule 3: Are unauthorized experiments allowed?

No. Unauthorized experiments and horseplay/pranks are inappropriate and forbidden.

Rule 4: What must a student do if they don't understand an instruction?

Ask for clarification about procedures or hazards before proceeding.

Rule 5: Are students permitted to work in the laboratory alone?

No. An instructor must be present.

Rule 6: When can a student enter the laboratory?

Not prior to the instructed time. Do not disturb any apparatus set up by the instructor.

Rule 7: What is prohibited due to the potential for accidental contamination?

Food, gum, and beverages should not be brought into or eaten in the laboratory.

Rule 8: What must a student do before conducting the lab?

Pre-lab exercises must be completed to familiarize the student and understand procedures.

Rule 9: What are the rules regarding your work area?

Do not clutter; properly clean and maintain your work area and equipment.

Rule 10: Besides the work area, what else must be kept clear?

Walkways (aisles). Know the locations and operating procedures of all safety equipment (fire extinguishers, eyewash/shower, etc.).

Rule 11: When should a fume hood be used?

When working with volatile chemicals that generate poisonous or annoying fumes (sash in a lowered position).

Rule 12: What should you check before disposing of chemicals?

Check with your instructor for the proper method of disposal. Double-check the labeled trash receptacle.

Rule 13: What PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) should be worn when using chemicals or heating/using glassware?

Chemical splash safety goggles and lab aprons.

Rule 14: How should you clean your hands after working with chemicals?

Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water, including under fingernails. Avoid touching your face, eyes, or mouth.

Rule 15: Are students allowed to enter science storage rooms?

No. Students should NEVER be allowed to enter science storage rooms.

Rule 16: What is required during emergency alarms (fire alarm, etc.)?

Gas valves should be closed, and fume hoods should be turned off. Electrical equipment should be turned off.

Rule 17: How should live or preserved animals/specimens be treated?

With respect, which includes treating them humanely and disposing of them properly.

Rule 18: What must be done when using sharp instruments like scalpels or dissecting needles?

Carry with tips and points pointing down and away. Cut away from your body. Grasp only by the handles.

Rule 19: What must be worn to cover the eyes if you wear contact lenses?

Safety glasses must be worn to prevent vapors from getting in the eyes.

Rule 20: How should you dress for the laboratory?

Clothing, hair, and dangling jewelry must be secured. Sandals should be avoided as they do not cover the feet completely.

Rule 21: When should lab aprons be worn?

Whenever chemicals are involved, just as chemical splash safety goggles are worn.

Rule 22: What should you do immediately if you observe any seemingly unsafe condition or accident?

Immediately report ANY unsafe condition or accident to the teacher.

Rule 23: If a chemical splashes on your skin, face, or eyes, what is the required first response?

IMMEDIATELY flush the exposed area with running water continuously for a minimum of 15 minutes (until emergency help arrives).

Rule 24: What must be used to fill a pipette?

Rubber bulbs or other devices (NEVER pipette by mouth).

Rule 25: What is the rule for diluting strong acids?

ALWAYS ADD ACID TO WATER (A to W), stirring/swirling gently.

Rule 26: Why is accurate labeling important?

To ensure the proper chemical is used, measured, and disposed of correctly.

Rule 27: What must be done with unused chemical portions?

Return them to the original containers (or dispose of as directed by the teacher).

Rule 28: Why is working with volatile chemicals dangerous, and what must you use?

They can generate poisonous or annoying fumes, so use a fume hood.

Rule 29: When heating with an open flame (burner), what is forbidden?

Never reach over an open flame. Secure loose articles, hair, and clothing.

Rule 30: Are you allowed to place anything in burner flames or on hot surfaces?

Do not place anything in burner flames or on heat sources unless specifically instructed to do so.

Rule 31: What must you assume about hot and cool glassware?

Cool and hot glassware cannot be distinguished by sight alone. Use protective gloves/mitts and place hot items on an insulated pad.

Rule 32: What is the rule for disposing of broken glassware?

NEVER handle the broken pieces with your bare hands. Use a broom and dustpan to collect the pieces and put them in the designated broken glass container.

Rule 33: What technique should be used for inserting or removing glass tubing from rubber stoppers?

The teacher should demonstrate; it requires protection of hands, lubrication of the glass, and avoidance of excess pressure.

Rule 34: What must be checked before using glassware?

Examine glassware for chips or cracks and make sure it is clean.

Rule 35: What is the rule for removing electrical plugs from sockets?

Grasp the plug, not the electrical cord.

Rule 36: What kind of electrical equipment should you report and not use?

Report and do not use equipment with frayed cords, exposed wires, or loose connections.

Rule 37: What are the general safety guidelines for handling chemicals?

Treat chemicals as hazardous, wash your hands, and use the "wafting" technique to smell.

Rule 38: What happens if a student fails to follow safety rules?

They can be immediately removed from the lab, receive a failing grade, and/or face detention, suspension, or removal from the class.