Safety
is one issue about which there can be no compromise. Working in a science
laboratory can and should be a very safe experience, provided proper safety
guidelines are followed.
General Science Safety
Procedures and Precautions
1. Read an assigned investigation carefully
before beginning it, noting all safety precautions. Follow all written and oral instructions from
your instructor.
2. Unauthorized experiments are prohibited. Do not begin your experiment or touch
equipment or materials until instructed to do so by your instructor.
3. Wear protective eye goggles when working with
chemicals or heating equipment, and at all other times when instructed to do so
by your teacher. Aprons and gloves are
also available; these will be required on occasion by your instructor.
4. Notify your instructor immediately of any
accidents or potentially hazardous situations.
If you spill chemicals on your skin or eyes, begin to wash the affected
areas immediately.
5. Keep your workspace clean and your equipment
in good working order. Keep laboratory
aisles and workspaces clear. At the end
of the lab, clean up your station and wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
6. Know what you are doing, and be aware of what
your lab partner and neighboring students are doing. If you have any questions, ASK!
7. Throw all paper and solids to be discarded
into an approved waste container. Never
discard solid refuse in the sink.
8. Do not hold your face directly over an open container
of chemicals. Do not sniff chemicals
directly or touch them with your hands unless instructed to do so. Assume chemicals are hazardous unless told
otherwise.
9. Never remove chemicals, materials, or
equipment from the laboratory without authorization.
10. Practical jokes and horseplay are strictly
forbidden in the laboratory.
11. Never eat, drink, or chew gum in the
laboratory.
12. Restrain loose clothing, hair, and dangling
jewelry before beginning an investigation.
Closed shoes should be worn during experiments using hazardous
materials.
13. Use special caution when using heat sources
(e.g. Bunsen burners, hot plates, etc.)
Never leave an operating heat source unattended.
I have read these rules
carefully, I understand them, and I will abide by them. I also am familiar with the items checked
below:
____ Location and use of fire extinguisher and
fire blanket
____ Location and use of eyewash and shower
devices
____ Emergency evacuation procedures
_________________________________ ______________
Student
Signature Date