Laboratory Safety Rules for Students

Study Notes

Safety Do’s and Don’ts

Pranks and reckless behavior are prohibited in the lab to maintain a serious environment.
Running is strictly forbidden to prevent accidents.
Eating and drinking in the laboratory is not allowed to avoid contamination and exposure to harmful substances.
Personal audio and video devices cannot be used during laboratory sessions.
Unauthorized experiments are not permitted to ensure safety and procedural integrity.
Sitting on lab benches or tables is not allowed to maintain cleanliness and safety.

General Work Procedure

Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols before starting any work.
Always work under the supervision of a teacher; unsupervised work is prohibited.
Follow teacher's instructions exactly when conducting experiments.
Report spills, accidents, or injuries immediately to a teacher for prompt action.
Never leave ongoing experiments unattended as this could lead to accidents.
Exercise caution with hot glassware, which can look like cold glassware.
Avoid pointing open test tubes at yourself or others to prevent splashes and spills.
Use mechanical pipetting devices instead of mouth suction for filling pipettes.
Ensure the area is clear of flammable materials before igniting any flames.
Unattended flames, such as lit Bunsen burners, must be avoided.
Turn off all heating devices, gas valves, and faucets when not in use.
Do not remove chemicals or equipment from the laboratory.
Store personal items, such as coats and bags, in specified locations, not on counters or pathways.
Inform teachers of any known sensitivities to particular chemicals.
Keep floors clear of obstructions, including spills and small items.

Housekeeping

Maintain a tidy work area by keeping unnecessary items out of the laboratory environment.
Clean your workspace thoroughly after every lab session.
Ensure sink drains are not obstructed by debris to maintain proper drainage.
Access to exits and emergency equipment must never be obstructed.
Inspect lab equipment for any defects before use; do not use damaged items.
Chemical waste must never be poured down the sink or in regular trash.
Dispose of chemical waste in clearly labeled containers designated for that purpose.
Broken glassware and sharp objects must be disposed of in appropriate containers immediately.
Dispose of gloves, filter paper, and paper towels correctly in lab waste bins.

Apparel in the Laboratory

Wear appropriate eye protection, such as chemical splash goggles, at all times.
Use disposable gloves when handling hazardous materials, removing them before leaving the lab.
A long-sleeved lab coat or chemical-resistant apron must be worn for protection.
Shoes should completely cover the foot; low-heeled, non-slip shoes are ideal; avoid sandals and open-toed shoes.
Clothing should cover the torso and legs; shorts or short skirts are not acceptable.
Long hair must be secured to prevent it from being a safety hazard; avoid loose clothing and accessories.
Contact lenses are not recommended due to the risk of harm in fume-rich environments.
Remove all jewelry, particularly dangling types, to avoid potential hazards.
Avoid synthetic finger nails, as they are highly flammable and difficult to extinguish.

Description

This quiz covers essential safety rules and practices that students must follow in a laboratory setting. Understanding these do's and don'ts can help prevent life-threatening injuries and promote a safe learning environment. Be prepared to answer questions that reinforce the importance of safety in the lab.