Laboratory Safety Rules for Students

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.