LABORATORY SAFETY

The following rules must be followed to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in laboratories.

1.  Know the location and operation of safety showers, eye wash units and fire extinguishers.

2. Always wear eye protection and closed toe shoes while working in the laboratory.  Wear a protective apron or laboratory coat.  If any chemical is spilled on your skin or clothing, wash it off immediately and remove any contaminated clothing.

3.  Never bring food or beverages into the laboratory. Do not taste or smell chemical. Smoking is not allowed in the lab. Never bring chemicals near your face.

4.  Do not use the lab burner until your instructor has explained how it is to be operated. Never leave your burner unattended. When heating test tubes, do not point the open end of the tube towards yourself or someone else.

5.  Do not attempt to insert glass tubing or thermometers into rubber stoppers until your instructor has shown you the proper procedure. Do not use broken, chipped, or cracked glassware.

6.  Dispose of chemicals properly.  Ask about a chemical waste container if you don't see one.

7.  Never perform any unauthorized lab experiments or procedure. Do not take chemicals, supplies, or equipment out of the lab area.

8.  Handle chemical with caution. Read labels carefully. Only take as much as you need. Leave reagent bottles in their place. Clean up all spills immediately.

9.  Immediately report all accidents to your instructor, no matter how minor.

10.  Clean your lab bench, put away all equipment and reagents, and wash your hands at the end of the work session.

I, _______________________________ have read, understand, and agree to follow these safety rules and procedures. I  agree to abide by any additional instructions, written or verbal, provide by my instructor.

Signature____________________________________  Date________________________