Laboratory Safety Do's and Don'ts

Study Notes

Laboratory Conduct Do's and Don'ts

Avoid practical jokes or loud behavior to maintain a safe environment.
Never run; walking is essential to prevent accidents.
Eating and drinking strictly prohibited to avoid contamination.
Personal audio or video equipment must not be used in the lab.
Unauthorized experiments are forbidden to ensure safety.
Avoid sitting on lab benches or tables to maintain cleanliness.

General Work Procedures

Be knowledgeable about emergency procedures and exits at all times.
Always work under the supervision of a teacher in the lab.
Follow teacher's instructions precisely for all experiments.
Report spills, accidents, or injuries to a teacher immediately.
Never leave experiments unattended while in progress.
Handle hot glassware with caution; it may look like cold glass.
Do not point test tubes at yourself or others while experimenting.
Use pipetting devices instead of mouth suction for safety.
Keep flammable solvents away when using flames.
Never leave lit Bunsen burners unattended; turn off when finished.
Ensure all heating apparatus, gas valves, and water faucets are off when not in use.
Do not remove equipment or chemicals from the laboratory.
Store personal items in designated areas; do not clutter bench tops.

Housekeeping

Maintain a neat workspace free of unnecessary objects.
Clean your work area thoroughly after each session.
Ensure sink drains are clear; avoid blocking with debris.
Do not obstruct exits or emergency equipment.
Inspect equipment for damage before use; damaged items should not be used.
Dispose of chemical waste in labeled containers only; do not pour down sinks.
Immediately dispose of broken glassware and sharp objects in designated containers.

Apparel in the Laboratory

Wear appropriate eye protection, such as chemical splash goggles.
Use disposable gloves when handling hazardous materials; remove them before leaving.
A long-sleeved laboratory coat or chemical-resistant apron is essential.
Choose footwear that covers the entire foot; avoid sandals and high heels.
Long pants are preferred; avoid shorts or short skirts for safety.
Secure long hair and loose clothing to prevent entanglement.
Contact lenses are not safe in fume-heavy environments.
Remove dangling jewelry for safety; avoid synthetic fingernails due to flammability.

Hygiene Practices

Keep hands away from face and body while handling chemicals.
No food or drink allowed in the laboratory to minimize contamination risk.
Avoid using lab glassware for food or drinks.
Do not apply cosmetics in the laboratory or storage area.
Always wash hands after removing gloves and before exiting the lab.
Remove all protective gear before leaving the laboratory.

Emergency Procedures

Familiarize yourself with all exits in the laboratory and building.
Know the location of emergency phones and equipment.
Be trained in using fire extinguishers, alarm systems, and eye wash stations.
In emergencies, follow the established plan provided by the teacher and evacuate via the nearest exit.

Chemical Handling

Verify the substance by checking the label before use.
Properly label all reagents, including name and date of preparation, to avoid confusion.

Description

This quiz provides essential safety guidelines for students in the laboratory. Understanding the do's and don'ts is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe learning environment. Review the checklist carefully to familiarize yourself with proper laboratory conduct.