Chemistry Lab Safety Overview

Introduction

• Chemistry lab is hands-on, learning through doing rather than just reading.
• Emphasis on safety due to the potential hazards of equipment and chemicals.

General Safety Rules

• Always follow strict safety procedures.
• Use small containers for better control.
• Report any accidents to the teacher immediately.
• Read all instructions and labels carefully before starting experiments.

Handling Chemicals

• Mixing Chemicals:
  • Only mix when instructed by the teacher.
  • Always add acid to water, never the reverse (AA Rule).
• Preventing Spills:
  • Use a work tray to contain spills.
  • Keep containers secured and stoppers replaced promptly.
• Avoiding Contamination:
  • Use clean glassware and never pour excess chemicals back into reagent bottles.
  • Dispose of excess chemicals properly.

Safe Practices with Chemicals

• Avoiding Contact:
  • Never taste or directly smell chemicals.
  • Waft vapors to your nose if instructed.
• Using Volatile Chemicals:
  • Work with harmful volatiles under a fume hood.
• Handling Wastes:
  • Use proper waste containers for chemical waste and dispose of materials correctly.

Bunsen Burner Safety

• Bunsen burners generate an open flame and must be used properly.
• Key Rules:
  • Check hoses for cracks before use.
  • Light burners with a striker or match, ensuring safety with gas flow.
  • Adjust flame to be blue with a lighter inner cone; turn off if sputtering or smelling gas.

Using Thermometers

• Lab thermometers do not need to be shaken.
• Handle them carefully to avoid breaks; report any breakage to your teacher immediately.

Preventing Injuries

• Use proper techniques for glass tubing to avoid cuts (e.g., use an inserter, lubricate, and wear gloves).
• Centrifuge Safety:
  • Balance test tubes to prevent vibration.
  • Never stop a spinning centrifuge manually.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Wear appropriate clothing: close-fitting, sturdy materials (avoid synthetics).
• Use lab aprons, long pants, closed shoes, and proper goggles.
• Tie back long hair and avoid wearing jewelry.

General Lab Behavior

• No fooling around in the lab.
• Keep aisles clear and personal belongings away from walkways.
• Avoid eating, drinking, or applying makeup in the lab to prevent contamination.

Emergency Procedures

• Cuts and Spills:
  • Wash cuts immediately, and let the teacher handle serious incidents.
  • For chemical spills on skin, rinse immediately; use safety showers for corrosive materials.
• Fire Safety:
  • Small fires may be covered; larger fires require a teacher-operated extinguisher.
  • Clothing fires should be extinguished using a safety shower or by using "stop, drop, and roll" technique.

Conclusion

• Chemistry labs can be safe and rewarding with attention to detail and adherence to safety rules.