ShareScience Lab Safety Rules
Visit the Safe Operating Procedures Sheet, or go to the Utah State Science Home Page
Following DirectionsWhile in the science laboratory, it is very important to follow all directions. If you are ever in doubt on how to proceed, ask your teacher! This is perhaps the most important safe operating procedure of the science laboratory.
One of the major concerns in the science laboratory is the use of a Bunsen burner or alcohol lamp. Both involve the use of fire and flame. Remember that to use such equipment is a privlege. Make sure you use insulated gloves if picking up a warm or hot object. Do not place body parts into a flame. Make sure you know where to turn off the gas. Long hair should be tied back and long sleeves should be rolled up.
Glassware is vital to successful science laboratory experiments. If not handled with care, glassware can cause serious harm. Notify your teacher if you break glassware. Dispose of broken glass in the appropriate container. Remember that to use such equipment is a privlege.
Sharp instruments are needed in the lab. You must never use or pretend to use sharp instruments on yourself or someone else. Remember that to use such equipment is a privlege.
Often labs require that you wear safety glasses. The purpose of such glasses is to prevent damage to your vision. If something should get into your eyes, make sure to let your teacher know. The glasses shown here are for impact safety. Safety goggles that are vented should be used when working with chemicals. Alcohol wipes should be used to clean the goggles before using. Remember that to use such equipment is a privlege.
Many labs involve the use of electrical devices. When you plug in such electrical equipment, make sure you include the ground plug (round). Hold the plug firmly by the insulating cover when plugging it in or unplugging it. NEVER unplug an electrical device by pulling on its cord! Remember that to use such equipment is a privlege.
Often labs involve the use of chemicals. Please be careful to keep chemicals off your skin and out of your mouth and eyes. If you get any chemical on your skin or in your eyes, INFORM your teacher immediately! Remember that to use such chemicals is a privlege.
Occasionally you will encounter animals in the science lab. Please be careful to keep from being bitten. If an animal bites you while in the lab, INFORM your teacher immediately! Remember that to handle animals is a privlege.
