In order to keep the lab a safe learning environment, all students must adhere to the following:
A. Pay attention to all instructions given before the lab.
B. Study the purpose of an experiment before performing it. If you do not understand the purpose and procedure, ask your teacher for clarification.
C. Wear eye goggles when involved in a laboratory activity involving caustic liquids, hot liquids or solids, or any activity where exposure might damage eyes.
D. Long hair must be worn back. Feet must be secure in shoes.
E. Immediately report all injuries to the teacher, regardless of how minor.
F. NEVER attempt unauthorized experiments. No laboratory work should be completed without teacher permission.
G. Do not touch objects that have been recently heated. First determine if an object is hot by bringing the back of your hand close to it without touching it.
H. Never carry hot equipment or dangerous chemicals through a group of gathered students.
I. Report sharp edges on mirrors, prisms, glass plates, metal plates, test tubes, etc. to the teacher so that they can be removed. Do not work with glass tubing that has jagged edges or edges which have not been fire polished.
J. Be careful of liquids lying on lab benches, they could be corrosive.
K. When working in a group, be attentive to what your partner(s) is /are doing.
L. When removing an electric plug from a socket, pull the plug, NOT the cord. Report frayed cords to the teacher.
M. Know the position of the fire alarm and turn off any burners you are working with if you hear a fire alarm.
N. Do NOT work with cracked glassware. Broken glassware should be placed in containers provided. Be especially careful not to leave broken glass on benches or in a sink. The same containers may be used for insoluble residues. Never empty solids into the sink.
O. Mercury vapors are highly toxic. Never handle mercury with your hands. Mercury will also ruin gold or silver jewelry.
P. Never leave a Bunsen flame unattended. If using a Bunsen burner, learn to light it correctly.
Q. Any chemical storeroom or closet is out of bounds to all students.
R. Always maintain quiet, calm behavior when lab activities are going on.
Summary: know what you’re doing, know what others are doing, listen to all instructions, and wear safety goggles.
