Safe
Operating Procedures Sheet
A
science laboratory can be a safe place to work if the following practices are followed.
While
in the laboratory, it is important to follow all directions.
If
in doubt, ask your teacher!
It’s
the most important laboratory safety procedure, to follow your teachers instructions
1) Do not start the lab without
your teacher's permission.
2) Notify your teacher when you
suspect a dangerous lab situation (such as injury, broken glassware, or spilled chemicals.)
3)
Do not touch lab equipment until instructed to do so.
4)
Read lab procedures before starting the lab. Take Data During Lab not after lab, on the assumption that it will be
neater.
Put data directly in your lab book rather than transcribing from another source (e.g., notebook or lab partner).
There
are lots of reasons for this, but the practical one is that it is much harder for the data to get lost in your lab book.
5)Eye
and Skin Safety. Often labs require that you wear safety glasses.
The
purpose of such glasses is to prevent damage to your vision.
If
something should get into your eyes, make sure you let your teacher know. The glasses shown here are for impact
safety.
Safety goggles that are vented should be used when working with chemicals. Alcohol wipes should be used to
clean
the goggles before using. When working with chemicals, students who wear contacts should wear unvented
goggles.
Remember that to use such equipment is a privilege. Dress Appropriately No sandals.
Tie long hair back. Wear safety goggles and a lab coat.
Do not touch
or carry hot equipment or dangerous chemicals.
7) Do not look directly into glassware that is being heated.
8)
Fire Safety
One
of the major concerns in the science laboratory is the use of a Bunsen burner or alcohol lamp. Both involve the use of fire
and flame. Remember that to use such equipment is a privilege. Make sure you use gloves if picking up a warm or hot object.
Do not place body parts into a flame. Make sure you know where to turn off the gas. Long hair should be tied back and long
sleeve should be rolled up. |
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9
) Glassware Safety
Broken glassware can cause serious harm, if not handled with care.
Notify
your teacher if you break glassware. Dispose of broken glass in the appropriate container. |
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10) Sharp Instrument Safety
Be careful when using any sharp
instruments such as razor blades or scalpels. You must never
use or pretend to use it on yourself or someone else. Remember that to use such
equipment is a privilege. |
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11)Electrical
Safety
Many labs involve the use of electrical devices. When you plug in electrical equipment, make
sure you hold the plug firmly by the insulating cover when plugging it in or unplugging it. NEVER unplug an electrical device
by pulling on its cord! |
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