It can be fun to work in a lab.In order to stay safe in a science lab, you should follow several rules.You can make sure that you have a safe and fun lab experience by preparing, understanding the lab environment, and handling the materials with care.
Step 1: Appropriate clothing should be worn.
Before you go to the lab, make sure you are dressed nicely.Long pants and closed toe shoes are recommended.Don't wear clothes that hang around your body.Don't wear anything that is a fire hazard.Don't wear cardigans or scarves.The jewelry needs to be removed.
Step 2: Don't wear contact lenses.
Chemicals can get trapped behind or inside your contact lens in many experiments.If you want to protect your eyes, wear glasses instead of contacts.
Step 3: Take care of your hair.
You should secure your hair in a ponytail or clip before your lab begins if you have a medium or long hairstyle.It is possible for long hair to catch on fire, dangle in chemicals, or get caught in lab equipment.If you forget to secure your hair before you get to the lab, keep a ponytail holder or hair clip in your bookbag.
Step 4: Drink and leave your food at the door.
Food, drink and chewing gum are not allowed in the lab.You shouldn't bring food preparation or eating utensils to the lab.You don't want to bring any hazardous material to your body.
Step 5: You should wear protective gear.
It is recommended that you wear protective gear, such as aprons, goggles, and gloves.If chemicals come in contact with each other, they could damage your eyes or skin.Equipment is required to protect your body from fire or heat.Fireproof aprons, heat gloves, and face covers will be available.
Step 6: Walkways must be kept clear.
All backpacks, books, and purses should be left out of the lab walkways.They can be put under the table, on the back of a chair, or in a locker.Other people will be walking through the lab carrying hazardous materials.A serious injury could be caused by tripping on items in the walkway.
Step 7: Don't lean on a lab table.
Be sure to sit in the chairs or stools provided by the lab.The table's weight could cause it to tilt.
Step 8: You should know the location of safety equipment.
Before the lab starts, it's a good idea to know where the safety equipment is.You should know the location of the first aid kit.
Step 9: Do you know what to do after an accident?
If you come in contact with a toxic chemical, rinse your eyes or skin.If you have an emergency, tell a teacher or other adult.Inform your teacher if you have a spill before you try to clean it up.Chemicals need to be cleaned up.Mercury must be cleaned with a vacuum.Touching it can cause heavy metal poisoning.
Step 10: Don't work alone in the lab.
It's a good idea to have at least two people in the lab.If you are dealing with toxic chemicals, this is important.Before starting an experiment with hazardous materials, make sure there is someone to help you if you get injured.
Step 11: Do not play in the lab.
The lab is a good place to avoid running, pushing, goofing off, or playing prank.Walk through the lab with care as you are aware of your surroundings.There will be spills and accidents in the lab due to these careless behaviors.
Step 12: Keep two hands on lab materials.
Carrying lab materials through a room requires a good hold on them.There is a chance that someone might accidentally hit you.Try to carry the containers with one hand on the bottom and the other on top or side.
Step 13: Follow instructions.
Before starting the experiment, listen to the instructions from the teacher.It's a good idea to read the instructions thoroughly before you follow a book or manual.Don't skip the steps.Unless you're told to do so, don't work ahead.
Step 14: Handle instruments with care.
During the experiment as well as during the clean up, take care of the lab equipment.If you see chips or cracks in glass equipment, report them.
Step 15: Before using new equipment, ask for guidance.
If you don't know how to use a piece of lab equipment, ask your teacher or classmates for help.Do not assume that you know how to use the equipment.
Step 16: Don't smell or taste chemicals.
There are a lot of toxic materials in the lab.During an experiment, never eat, drink, or smell anything.Do not use lab equipment as eating utensils for non-lab materials.If you must smell something, don't smell directly from the recipient, but gently move the air above them to yourself.If you take in just enough, you can detect the smell.
Step 17: When you are done, clean your workspace.
Before you leave the lab, make sure your space is clean.When disposing of lab materials follow instructions.Thoroughly clean your workspace.You should wash your hands thoroughly to make sure that you don't transfer lab chemicals or materials to other people.If you have permission to do so, do not pour anything down the sink or into the trash can.