Laboratory Safety and Risk Minimization

Introduction

• PPE Selection: Based on a risk assessment of the chemicals and conditions in the lab.
• Previous Video Recap: Discussed general strategies for risk minimization.

RAMP Process

• RAMP: Stands for Recognize hazards, Assess risks, Minimize risks, and Prepare for emergencies.
• Assumption: Steps of recognizing hazards and assessing risks are completed.

Lab Safety Techniques

General Lab Practices

• Workspace Organization:
  • Keep lab spaces clean to reduce trip hazards and mistakes.
  • Store unrelated items like book bags away from the work area.
  • Dispose of chemical waste promptly and according to instructions.
  • Protect electronic devices by using plastic baggies when necessary.

Glassware Safety

• Inspection:
  • Check for fractures or cracks to prevent breakage.
  • Temporary labeling of containers to avoid confusion.
• Titration Technique:
  • Pour reagents from a small, controlled beaker.
  • Use a labeled beaker and avoid drips.
  • Keep burettes at eye level and use a larger beaker beneath to catch spills.
• Pipette Safety:
  • Handle pipettes gently to avoid breaking.
  • Avoid contamination by not returning excess solution to stock bottles.

Chemical Synthesis

• Weighing Reagents:
  • Take reaction materials directly to balance.
  • Clean up spills immediately.
  • Avoid carrying weighed solids through crowded spaces.
• Heating Solutions:
  • Use hot plates on dry surfaces.
  • Conduct reactions with hazardous gases under a hood.
  • Use appropriate tongs for handling hot objects.
• Disposal and Cleanup:
  • Share leftover materials or dispose properly.
  • Ensure waste is placed in correct, labeled containers to prevent reactions.
  • Wash glassware and clean the workstation thoroughly.

End of Experiment Protocol

• Waste Management: Ensure all waste is in labeled containers and close them securely.
• Post-Experiment Cleanup: Wash hands, check gas valves, and dispose of gloves as instructed.

Conclusion

• Mindfulness: Stay aware of all activities in the lab.
• RAMP Recap: Always think of RAMP (Recognize, Assess, Minimize, Prepare) before an experiment.
• Further Learning: Explore additional videos for more on the RAMP process.

Additional Resources

• Visit acs.org/safetyvideos for more safety information and videos.