Laboratory Safety Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Importance of laboratory safety.
• Preparing before entering the laboratory.

Initial Safety Steps

• Identify Exits: Know the nearest exits for emergency evacuation.
  • Example: One near the lab, another down the hall.
• Fire Extinguisher Location:
  • Located outside the lab to avoid the necessity to go through a fire.
  • Main responsibility: Evacuate, not to use it.

Evacuation Protocol

• Exit swiftly (no running).
• Gather outside for attendance.
• Move about 50 feet away from the building.
• In adverse weather, evacuate to Chase Gymnasium (100 yards north).

Inside the Lab

• Storage of Personal Items:
  • Hang coats and place backpacks in cubbies to prevent tripping hazards.

General Safety Principles

• Prevent hazardous chemicals from contacting skin or being ingested.
• Keep chemicals out of the environment.

Proper Attire

• Lab Coat: Wear to protect against chemical exposure.
• Safety Goggles:
  • Fully sealing goggles to protect eyes from chemical splashes.
  • Different from regular safety glasses.

Lab Bench Safety

• Initial Cleaning: Assume benches have harmful residues.
  • Clean upon arrival and at the end of lab sessions.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

• Read and analyze SDS for understanding hazards and proper chemical handling.
• Available in the lab or online.

Additional Safety Gear

• Gloves:
  • Use depending on the chemical hazard.
  • Available in various sizes on wall racks.
  • Essential when instructed by the supervisor.
• Glove Removal:
  • Remove before leaving the lab to prevent contamination outside.
  • Dispose of properly before exiting.