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Edited by D :D :D, Jamie, Serendipitee, Hailey Girges and 4 others

Science labs can contain many dangerous chemicals and apparatus, so it is very important to stay safe and not expose yourself to any health or safety risks. Here is how to avoid some common mistakes and stay safe in your science lab.

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EditSteps

  1. 1
    Listen to your teacher and follow instructions carefully. (If you are unsure, check!)
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  2. 2
    Store coats, chairs and bags under the lab benches. (Someone may trip over them.)
  3. 3
    Know where the safety equipment is located.
    • Get instructions from a qualified person on use of the safety equipment needed for the planned procedure before you do any lab work. If you are not told about safety equipment for your procedure, ask. It is best to know about what might go wrong before it actually does. That way you will be able to respond quickly and correctly.
    • Typical safety equipment might include:
      • eye wash stations
      • overhead showers
      • fire blankets (to suffocate fires)
      • fire extinguishers for different types of fires
      • vent hoods
      • solvent cabinets and containers
      • lockouts for moving apparatus
      • aprons, goggles, neoprene gloves, asbestos gloves
  4. 4
    Wear eye protection during practical work.
  5. 5
    Stand up during practical work.
  6. 6
    Tie back long hair and remove jewelry.
  7. 7
    Tuck in loose, baggy clothing and roll up long sleeves.
  8. 8
    Point test tubes away from you when you are heating them.
    • Pour acid into water, not water into acid.
  9. 9
    Report all spills, breakages or accidents to your teacher immediately.
  10. 10
    Keep your workspace clean and tidy.
  11. 11
    Properly dispose of all solvents, chemicals, and biological agents.
  12. 12
    Take proper precautions with flames (Bunsen burners).
  13. 13
    Use a vent hood when handling volatile chemicals.
  14. 14
    Avoid pinch points.
  15. 15
    Wash your hands after practical work.
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EditWarnings

  • Don't enter a lab on your own and/or without permission.
  • Don't eat or drink in a lab.
  • Don't touch any equipment unless you have received proper instruction and are asked to do so.

Article Info

Categories: Science | Keeping Safe | School Stuff

Recent edits by: Abrogation316, Mais, Illneedasaviour

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