How to Be Safe in Chemistry Lab

Chemistry labs can be educational and interesting. However, it can also be a dangerous place. Following all the recommended safety procedures and rules in the lab can keep you safe while you conduct your experiments.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Dress appropriately. Wear safety goggles and, if provided, a lab coat or lab apron. Wear closed toe shoes and long pants to protect your legs and feet from chemicals. Tie back any long hair when working with open flames. Contact lenses can absorb chemical vapors, so wear eyeglasses instead.
2. Know the location of safety equipment in the chemistry lab. In the event of accidents or emergencies, know where to find the fire extinguisher, the eyewash station, the safety shower and the fire blankets. Learn how to use the safety equipment in the chemistry lab in the event of an accident or emergency.
3. Handle all chemicals according to established safety precautions. Ask your instructor if you are unsure about how to handle any chemical in the laboratory.
4. Use the equipment in the lab as intended. Ask your instructor if you have any questions about how to use or handle any equipment.
5. Dispose of any chemicals properly. In most cases, dispose of chemicals in specified containers. Usually, only pour water down any sink drains. Follow your teacher's instructions for the proper disposal of chemicals in your lab.
6. Read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the chemicals you are working with in the lab. The Material Safety Data Sheets outline the chemical's associated warnings and hazards. Each chemistry lab should have Material Safety Data Sheets available.

Tips & Warnings

• Tell your teacher immediately about any accidents in the chemistry lab.
• Never taste any chemicals or smell any gases or vapors directly while in the chemistry lab. Don't do anything in the chemistry lab that you have not been instructed to do by your teacher or that is not outlined in your written laboratory instructions.