Basic Safety Tips for Experimenting in a Chemistry Lab

Safety must first be your motto as a science teacher or high school student. You never want to do an experiment unless you know exactly what you are doing. Mistakes in chemistry can produce nicknames like "Two-finger Joe", "One-eyed Jack" and "Lefty". So take the time to learn some safety techniques to prevent serious injuries, but still have a fun time with chemistry.

LAB SAFETY GUIDELINES

# 1 - Never carry out unauthorized experiments.

Don't work in the lab alone and always have your teacher's permission for all types of lab activities. You must give your teacher a complete outline of what you plan to do in the lab. Your plan must include your hypothesis, a list of materials and a step-by-step procedure. If you are really serious about doing good science, you should keep a laboratory log for all your experiments.

# 2 - Use lab equipment only for the intended purpose.

Never use laboratory equipment for anything other than what needs to be done. The nissui indonesia fastest way to get injured is to use lab equipment for other purposes. A cool glassware is not a cup or plate to eat or drink anytime.

# 3 - Don't bring food or drinks to the laboratory.

If poisoning does not sound good to you, do not bring food or drink to the laboratory. If you are hungry or thirsty, leave the lab and enjoy tasty snacks outside the lab. It is not uncommon for someone to be poisoned because they eat in a laboratory.

# 4 - Don't remove any objects from the lab.

Do not take equipment, glass or chemicals from the laboratory unless your teacher has given you permission. In many cases removing chemicals from a laboratory is a crime. It's not funny, it's crime.

# 5 - Wash your hands.

Wash your hands thoroughly at the end of each lab session. Even if you think the experiment you conducted is not dangerous. You never know whether a lab is contaminated. So, make it a habit to wash your hands.

# 6 - Wear eye protection.

Wear eye protection when doing activities that involve chemicals. It might look like discomfort or difficulty dealing with glasses or eyeglasses but one simple spark of chemicals can be a disaster. Protect your eyes.

# 7 - Tie long hair back.

If you have long hair, tie it back. Hair is highly flammable and if you approach the Bunsen burner, you will be a suitable human. You can also end up in an experiment if not careful.