Safety Rules in Chemistry Laboratory

It is very essential to follow safety rules in a laboratory, specially in a chemistry laboratory as most of the chemicals and acids used in various experiments are flammable and can be very dangerous if not properly handled. If proper safety rules are maintained, accidents and casualty can be prevented.

Here are some of the basic safety rules, which should be followed while working in a chemistry lab, while handling various chemistry lab equipment:

• The most important safety rule to consider wearing appropriate clothing as most accidents occur due to improper dress. The lab assistants or the researchers spill acid on themselves or others, which give a burning sensation and people actually set themselves on fire accidentally. Long and loose clothes are strictly prohibited in labs. Long hair should be properly tied. Wear clothes that are made of materials that fire proof. Lab coat and safety goggles are advised to put on during working in chemistry labs.
• All the chemicals that are used in the lab should have their respective material safety data sheet (MSDS). All the recommendations for safe use and disposal of the material should be carefully followed. Infact the students should also know the meaning of lab safety signs so that prevention is taken before hand.
• In a Chemistry lab, the activity of using a pipette for precipitates should not be done by mouth. Many argue that it is just water and not any chemical that they are aspirating. But the glass pipette is not clean and is previously used by many people. Instead, students should be taught the technique of using automatic pipette or the pipette bulb.
• Never use the pipette with mouth. In a Chemistry lab, the glass pipette is not clean and is previously used by many people. Instead, it is better to use an automatic pipette or the pipette bulb.
• Anyone working in a laboratory should know the exact locations of the lab safety equipments kept in the laboratory. You must know the locations of extinguishers, fire blankets, shower, eyewash, etc.
• The lab assistants or students must also be given training on how to use these safety equipments so that when the actual time comes, they can handle the situation on their own.
• While working with chemicals don't deviate from the instructions. While mixing chemicals, proper attention should be given. Don't mix them randomly. Be careful while using concentrated acids like hydrochloric acid (HCL), nitric acid and sulphuric acid.
• There are different methods of disposal for different chemicals. All chemicals must be washed away in the sink and not down the drain. There is a specific method to dispose off the waste chemicals. Consult the lab instructor in this regard.
• Never eat or drink anything in lab.
• Don't taste chemicals or sniff them. Sniffing the chemical can also be harmful.