Laboratory Safety

Laboratory Safety

The laboratory is a safe place to experiment if you are careful. You must assume responsibility for the safety of yourself, your lab partners, and your neighbors. Here are some general safety rules to help guide you in protecting yourself and others from injury in the lab:

The lab is to be used for serious work.
Do not perform experiments that are unauthorized! Always obtain your instructors permission!
Study your lab assignment before you come to the lab. If you are in doubt about any procedure, ask your instructor for help.
Use the safety equipment provided for you. Know the location of the fire extinguisher, safety shower, fire blanket, and first aid kit.
Report any accident, injury, or incorrect procedure to your instructor at once.
Smother fires with a towel. If clothing should catch fire, smother it with a blanket or coat or quench it under a safety shower.
NEVER RUN!
Handle toxic, combustible, or radioactive substances only under the direction of your instructor. If you spill acid or another corrosive chemical, wash it off immediately with water. Never taste any chemical substance or draw poisonous materials into a glass tube with your mouth. Keep combustible materials away from open flames.
Place broken glass and solid substances in designated containers. Keep insoluble waste material out of the sink.
Use electrical equipment only under the supervision of your instructor. Be sure your instructor checks electrical circuits before you activate them.
When your investigation is completed, be sure to turn off the water and gas, and disconnect electrical connections. Clean your work area. Return all materials and apparatus to their proper places.