Safety in the lab
As a student, you will carry out many laboratory activities in the chemistry department. While no activity is completely risk free, if you use common sense, you will encounter few problems. The following guidelines apply to all laboratory activities.
- Your concern for safety should begin even before the first activity. Always read and think about each laboratory assignment before starting.
- Know the location and use of all safety equipment in your laboratory. These should include the safety shower, eye wash, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and blanket.
- Wear a laboratory coat or apron and protective glasses or goggles for all laboratory work.
- Any laboratory accident, however small, should be reported immediately to your instructor.
- When discarding used chemicals, carefully follow the instructions provided.
- Return equipment, chemicals, aprons and protective glasses to their designated locations.
- Before leaving the laboratory, ensure that gas lines and water faucets are shut off.
