Safety Rules and Contract
Chemistry lab safety rules are guidelines designed to help keep you safe when experimenting. They're mostly just common sense, but because some equipment and chemicals in a chemistry laboratory can cause you harm, you should always remind yourself of the guidelines before every lab. The following safety rules are a sample of the most basic rules that should be followed when in a chemistry lab, but realize that you need to listen to the instructor for the unique safety issues of each lab.
Enjoy the lab, it should be a chance to learn and have fun!
Keep your pathways clear by placing extra items (books, bags, etc.) on your normal desks.
Work quietly — know what you are doing by reading the assigned experiment before you start to work. Pay close attention to any cautions described in the laboratory exercises. If you are unclear of anything be sure to contact your teacher.
Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes when heating substances, dissecting, etc.
Unauthorized experiments or procedures must not be attempted.
Keep solids out of the sink.
Long hair (chin-length or longer) must be tied back to avoid catching fire.
Wear sensible clothing including footwear. Loose clothing should be secured so they do not get caught in a flame or chemicals.
Report all accidents, injuries, and breakage of glass or equipment to your instructor immediately.
Do not attempt to change the position of glass tubing in a stopper.
Do not taste or smell chemicals.
Never point a test tube being heated at another student or yourself. Never look into a test tube while you are heating it.
Do not lean, hang over or sit on the laboratory tables.
Do not leave your assigned laboratory station without permission of the teacher.
Know the location of the fire extinguisher, eye wash station, first aid kit and safety shower.
Fooling around or "horse play" in the laboratory is absolutely forbidden. Students found in violation of this safety rule will be barred from participating in future labs and could result in suspension.
Anyone wearing acrylic nails will not be allowed to work with matches, lighted splints, bunsen burners, etc.
Do not lift any solutions, glassware or other types of apparatus above eye level.
Follow all instructions given by your teacher.
Learn how to transport all materials and equipment safely.
No eating or drinking in the lab at any time!
Leave your work station clean and in good order before leaving the laboratory.
Remember, your instructor will provide you with ALL of the safety precautions for each lab, but it is your responsibility to understand them, to ask questions if you don't (before the lab), and to obey all of the precautions that are given.