Lab Safety Presentation Notes

Introduction

• Welcome to Bayou 181 lab.
• This is the first of 19 labs.
• Focus on laboratory safety rules essential for all future labs.
• Lab safety is crucial to avoid accidents.
• Rules apply to other labs like Human Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry.

Importance of Safety

• Avoid injury when handling explosive chemicals (e.g., hydrochloride, alcohol).
• Use of knives, hot plates, glass.
• Lab safety should become habitual.
• Proper outfit checks before lab sessions.

Key Safety Rules

Personal Protective Equipment

• Goggles/Glasses: Mandatory when using hazardous chemicals (e.g., hydrochloride, sodium hydroxide, alcohol).

Chemical Handling

• Assume all reagents are poisonous.
• Do not ingest, inhale, or taste chemicals.
• Wash immediately if chemicals contact skin or are ingested/inhaled.

Prohibitions

• No ingestion of reagents.
• No eating, drinking, or smoking in the lab.
• All food and drinks must be left outside.
• No open-toe shoes; must wear closed-toe shoes for protection.
• Do not carry reagent bottles around.
• Do not pipette by mouth.
• Do not pour chemicals back into original containers unless instructed.

Equipment Use

• Do not operate equipment until instructed.
• Know locations of first aid kits, eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, and ceiling showers.

Pre-Lab Preparation

• Familiarize yourself with the experiment (pre-lab preparation).
• Understand the protocol, chemicals, and equipment needed.

During the Lab

• Keep work areas neat, clean, and organized.
• Wear appropriate footwear (closed-toe shoes).
• Use gloves, clamps, or tongs when handling hot glassware.

Reporting and Emergencies

• Inform instructor of any cuts, burns, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Instructor will assist with first aid and assess hazards.

Homework and Resources

• Read handouts and watch the lab safety video.
• Complete the lab safety questionnaire for homework and submit it on Blackboard.
• All answers can be found in the handout and video materials available on Blackboard.

Conclusion

• Ensure to complete all pre-lab preparations and safety checks before attending lab sessions.
• Questions can be directed to the instructor.
• Thank you for your attention to lab safety.