Essential Chemistry Lab Safety Guidelines

Aug 14, 2024

Chemistry Lab Safety and Rules

Introduction

  • First flipped video of the year on lab safety and rules.
  • Aim to keep videos around 7-10 minutes.

Importance of Lab Safety

  • Know safety symbols: Important for alerting possible dangers and reminders to work carefully.
  • Use good judgment and follow instructions.
  • Notify instructor immediately of any unsafe incidents or accidents.

Pre-Lab Preparation

  • Read lab instructions ahead of time.
    • Avoid errors by understanding procedures beforehand.
  • Do not perform unauthorized experiments.

Personal Safety Measures

  • Eye Protection:

    • Wear safety goggles when dealing with chemicals, flames, or heating devices.
    • Contact lens wearers should notify the instructor.
    • Use eye wash station for eye incidents (flush for 15 minutes).
  • Hair and Clothing Safety:

    • Tie back long hair.
    • Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire.
    • Wear closed-toe shoes, no flip-flops.

Hand Safety

  • Rinse hands with water for 15 minutes if exposed to spills.
  • Always wash hands post-lab.
  • Handle glassware and sharp tools carefully.

Glassware and Sharp Objects

  • Do not dispose of broken glass in regular trash.
  • Teacher will clean broken glass.

Electrical and Physical Safety

  • Avoid inserting objects into wall sockets.
  • Arrange cords to prevent tripping.
  • No backpacks/purses in the lab.

Heating Safety

  • Never leave a heat source unattended.
  • Do not point heated test tubes towards anyone.
  • Avoid heating closed containers.

Chemical Safety

  • Read labels twice before handling chemicals.
  • Only use instructed chemicals and amounts.
  • Do not mix chemicals unless instructed.
  • Consider all chemicals dangerous, even vinegar.

General Lab Conduct

  • No eating or drinking in the lab unless specified.
  • Avoid practical jokes, horseplay, or roughhousing.

Emergency Procedures

  • Know the location of fire blanket, shower, eye wash, first-aid kit, and fire extinguisher.
  • Notify the teacher immediately in case of spills or accidents.

Post-Lab Responsibilities

  • Maintain a clean work area.
  • Follow instructions for disposing waste products.
  • Do not leave until the workstation is cleaned and organized.

Conclusion

  • Ensure understanding of lab safety rules and demonstrate proper note-taking methods in class.