Chemistry Laboratory Safety, Chemistry Lab Safety, Safety in a Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Laboratory Safety Tips

In a chemistry lab there is a need for a strong set of rules. A chemistry lab involves working with flames, toxic chemicals, fragile glassware. All these things if not used carefully can very well lead to potential hazards. These are the rules that are not to be broken any cost. Some of these safety norms are given in detail here.

General Safety Rules in the Chemistry Laboratory

A proper conduct of students at all times is of primary importance in a chemistry laboratory
A laboratory is not the place for eating, drinking or chewing gums. Avoid this religiously.
It is better always to learn and be prepared for laboratory work. Laboratory is not the place for fooling around or playing practical jokes.
All the work areas and the surrounding environment should be kept clean and tidy at all times.
Perform experiments in a well ventilated area
Perform only those experiments that are asked by the instructor. Do not perform any unauthorised experiments.
Know the exact location of the all the laboratory safety equipment including first aid kits.

Protective Dressing

It is necessary to dress appropriately for lab activity. Loose or baggy clothing, long flowing hair, hanging jewelry can create trouble in laboratory. No sandals to be worn only fully covered footwear.
A lab coat at all times should be worn while performing laboratory experiments
If any experiment involves heat, chemicals or glassware, then students are invariably required to wear safety goggles.

Handling Accidents and Injuries

In case of any accident report it to the concerned authority immediately. Whether it is a spill, breakage or injury in the form of cut, burn, etc. Do not spread panic.
In case of chemical splash in eye(s) or skin, rush to the water tap and flush with running water for a minimum of 20 minutes. Call the teacher and seek medical attention.

Chemical Handling

Chemicals in the laboratory are dangerous. Chemicals should not be handled with fingers instead use a tweezer. For making an observation, keep a distance of minimum 1 foot away from the specimen.
Do not ever try to smell or taste any chemical.
Check thoroughly the label on chemical bottles at least twice prior to removing contents from them. Take out only the needed quantity.
Unused chemicals should not be returned to their original container.
Removal of chemicals or other materials from the laboratory area is strictly prohibited.

Glassware and Other Equipment Handling

Handling of broken glass with bare hands can prove hazardous. Broken glass should always be disposed in the specific glass disposal container.
Examine each glassware before use. Chipped, cracked, or dirty glassware should never be used.
Check thoroughly the label on chemical bottles at least twice prior to removing contents from them. Take out only the needed quantity.
Hot glassware should never be immersed in hot water, this may cause shattering of the glassware.

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