Lab Expectations

8th Grade Science Lab Safety

Inquiry and lab-based learning activities will be a large part of the curriculum this year. These experiences will provide you with the background knowledge for conducting proper lab procedures and safe handling of lab equipment. Before we get started, we would like to suggest (strongly) some guidelines for you to review prior to starting these activities.

Absolutely no food or drink during a lab! 

🔬 Lab Safety Guidelines – Read Before You Begin!

1. Read Instructions First
Understand each lab before starting. If you're unsure about any step or material, ask your teacher. If something feels unsafe, don’t do it—safety first!

2. Clean Up
Clean your area as you work and leave it spotless. No food or drinks during labs. If you make a mess or don’t know how to clean it, ask for help 

3. Stay Organized
Return all materials to where you got them. This helps everyone work faster and keeps things running smoothly 

4. Handle Chemicals Carefully
Follow your teacher’s directions for using and disposing of chemicals. Avoid breathing fumes or touching substances with bare skin. Report any spills right away 

5. Fire Safety
If there’s a fire, tell your teacher immediately. If you catch fire: STOP, DROP & ROLL. Never run—it makes things worse 

6. Protect Yourself
Always wear goggles and gloves when working with chemicals. Pull your long hair back to prevent it from catching fire! You know some of you have done it! If something spills on you, tell the teacher and rinse with water for 15 minutes 

7. No Horseplay
Goofing around can cause serious accidents. No running, shoving, or punching. You’ll be responsible for any broken equipment due to unsafe behavior.