If you need to make up a previous lab, consult your instructor. Performing experiments unsupervised is not allowed! Also, do not perform any unauthorized experiments in the lab if you are curious about a procedure not covered in the day's experiment, consult your instructor or TA.
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Do not inhale vapors, sniff just enough to detect the odor (if there is one). Never directly smell anything if you need to detect an odor, use your cupped hand to waft a small sample to your nose. Smoking is not allowed in the lab, or in any building on campus. (See the section on Handling Broken Glass for more details.)įood and drink are not permitted in the lab. Clean up spills or broken glassware immediately and quickly. Be sure to dispose of broken glass properly. Put things back where you find them (reagents, supplies), and be sure to keep your work area clean and uncluttered. Conductįollowing common sense and extending courtesy are the key factors in acting safely in the lab! Conduct yourself with awareness of everyone around you, and familiarize yourself fully (in advance!) with the experiment being performed. For academic labs, first aid kits are clearly labeled with signs in one of the top cubbies near the entrance to the lab. For research labs, talk to the lead professor(s) for the lab, and they will indicate where they store their first aid kits. You should be prepared to help your neighbor in case of an accident a matter of seconds can be critical!įirst aid kits are also available in every academic and research chemistry lab. In the event of a serious accident, remember that injured people are often in shock and are unable to help themselves. Most accidents are minor, and methods of dealing with them are detailed in the sections below.
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If an accident does happen, you must take steps to prevent further injury. If you do this, you will minimize your exposure to harmful amounts of chemicals during your semester(s) in chem lab. Know the hazards of each chemical you use so that you will know what precautions to use when handling it. These precautions ensure not only your own safety, but that of everyone else in the lab. Common sense, careful work and awareness of the people around you are essential in preventing chemical spills, broken glassware, and fires. The responsibility for lab safety rests with each and every student in the laboratory.