Lab Safety

General Rules

1. Conduct yourself in a responsible manner at all times.
2. Follow all written and verbal instructions carefully. Ask the teacher if you are unsure of something.
3. Do not touch any equipment, chemicals or other materials until you are instructed to do so.
4. Do not eat food, drink beverages, or chew gum in the laboratory.
5. Be prepared. Read all procedures before beginning any experiment.
6. No horseplay, practical jokes or pranks.
7. Keep your work area clean and tidy. Books, purses, backpacks, etc. should be stored under your lab bench.
8. Keep aisles clear.
9. Know the locations and operating procedures of all safety equipment.
10. Be aware of your surroundings.
11. Dispose of all chemical waste properly.
12. Handle all living organisms in a humane manner.

Clothing

1. Any time chemicals, heat, or glassware are used, students will wear a lab apron and safety goggles.
2. Dress appropriately. Loose or baggy clothing and jewelry must be secured.

Accidents and Injuries

1. Report any accident (spill, breakage, etc.) to the teacher immediately.
2. If you or a classmate is injured, immediately notify the teacher.

Handling Chemicals

1. All chemicals are considered dangerous. Do not touch, taste, or smell any chemical unless specifically instructed to do so by the teacher.
2. Chemicals are only to be used as instructed. Unauthorized use of chemicals can lead to severe injury.

Handling Glassware and Equipment

1. Never handle broken glass with your bare hands. Use a brush and dustpan to clean up broken glass and dispose in designated container.
2. Hands must be completely dry before touching an electrical switch, plug or outlet.
3. Examine glassware before each use. Never use chipped or cracked glassware. Never use dirty glassware.
4. If you do not understand how to use a piece of equipment, ask the teacher for assistance.

Heating Substances

1. Never reach over an exposed flame.
2. Never leave a lit burner unattended.
3. Do not point the open end of a test tube being heated at yourself or anyone else.
4. Use protected gloves or test tube holder when handling hot glassware.
5. Never look into a container that is being heated.

Agreement

I, ____________________________________________________________________, (student's name) have read and agree to follow all of the safety rules set forth in this contract. I realize that I must obey these rules to ensure my own safety, and that of my fellow students and teacher. I will cooperate to the fullest extent with my teacher and fellow students to maintain a safe lab environment. I will also closely follow the oral and written instructions provided by the teacher. I am aware that any violation of this safety contract that results in unsafe conduct in the laboratory or misbehavior on my part, may result in being removed from the laboratory, detention, receiving a failing grade, and/or dismissal from the course.

_____________________________________________________________________, (student's signature) ____________________________________ date

Dear Parent or Guardian:

We feel that you should be informed regarding the school's effort to create and maintain a safe science classroom/laboratory environment. With the cooperation of the instructors, parents, and students, a safety instruction program can eliminate, prevent, and correct possible hazards. You should be aware of the safety instructions your son/daughter will receive before engaging in any laboratory work. Please read the list of safety rules above. No student will be permitted to perform laboratory activities unless this contract is signed by both the student and parent/guardian and is on file with the teacher. Your signature on this contract indicates that you have read this Student Safety Contract, are aware of the measures taken to ensure the safety of your son/daughter in the science laboratory, and will instruct your son/daughter to uphold his/her agreement to follow these rules and procedures in the laboratory.

_____________________________________________________________________, (parent/guardian signature) ________________________________ date

adapted from Flinn Scientific