General lab safety rules

The following are rules that relate to almost every laboratory and should be included in most safety policies.

• Be sure to read all fire alarm and safety signs and follow the instructions in the event of an accident or emergency.

• Ensure you are fully aware of your facility's/building's evacuation procedures.

• Make sure you know where your lab's safety equipment—including first aid kit(s), fire extinguishers, eye wash stations, and safety showers—is located and how to properly use it.

• Open flames should never be used in the laboratory unless you have permission from a qualified supervisor.

• Make sure you are aware of where your lab's exits and fire alarms are located.

• Do not chew gum, drink, or eat while working in the lab.

• Laboratory glassware should never be utilized as food or beverage containers.

• Each time you use glassware, be sure to check it for chips and cracks. Notify your lab supervisor of any damaged glassware so it can be properly disposed of.

• If an instrument or piece of equipment fails during use, or isn't operating properly, report the issue to a technician right away. Never try to repair an equipment problem on your own.

• Never leave an ongoing experiment unattended.

• Make sure you always follow the proper procedures for disposing lab waste.