Lab SafetyMr. K

What you need to know about safety in a science classroom.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxyDImUYo14&feature=related

SYMBOLS• When performing an experiment, you

must be able to recognize the safety icons and symbols that are used.

• The symbols will tell you the precautions you have to take in order to be safe.

• WHMIS: Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System

• HHPS: Hazardous Household Product Symbols

• Textbook Safety Symbols:

Textbook Safety Symbols

• These symbols will appear at the start of labs or activities to make you aware of any possible dangers.

WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information

System)

HHPS (Hazardous Household Products Symbols)

Safety in Your Science Classroom

1. Working with your teacher...• Listen carefully to instructions• Inform your teacher of any allergies,

medical conditions, or physical problems that could affect your work in the science classroom

• Know the location and proper use of all safety equipment.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

2. Starting an activity or investigation.

• Read your lab instructions – make sure you understand them all!!

• Check for safety icons and now what safety precautions must be followed.

• Only begin your activity after your teacher tells you to start!

Safety in Your Science Classroom

3. Wearing protective clothing.• Goggles belong on your eyes, not

on the top of your head!• Ensure all loose clothing (necklaces,

scarves, ties, etc) are secured.• Tie back long hair.• Close-toed shoes are mandatory.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

4. Acting responsibly...• Make sure your work area is uncluttered

(floor and work surface are clear).• Do not sit at the lab bench while working

with chemicals.• Handle equipment carefully.• No pushing, shoving, or running.• If other students are doing something you

consider dangerous, report it to your teacher.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

5. Handling edible substances...• Do not chew gum, eat, or drink in

the science classroom... EVER!• Do not taste any chemicals, even if

they smell really good!

Safety in Your Science Classroom

6. Working in a science classroom...

• When gathering your equipment, hold it carefully and carry only one object or container at a time.

• Be aware of others during activities – make room for those who are carrying equipment/chemicals.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

7. Working with sharp objects...• Always cut away from yourself when using

a knife or razor blade.• Always keep the pointed end of the scissors

pointed away from yourself and others while walking.

• If you notice sharp edges on any equipment, report it to your teacher.

• Dispose of broken glass as directed by your teacher.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

8. Working with electrical equipment...• Make sure your hands are dry when

touching cords, plugs, or sockets.• Pull the plug, not the cord, when unplugging

electrical equipment.• Report frayed cords to your teacher.• Place electrical cords away from sinks/water.• Place electrical cords where people won’t

trip over them.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

9. Working with heat...• Use heat proof containers.• Point the open end of the container that is

being heated away from yourself and others.• Do not allow a container to boil dry.• Handle hot objects carefully. Some equipment

takes longer to cool down. Assume it is all still hot! (ie. hot glass looks the same as cold glass)

• If you do receive a burn, inform your teacher and apply cold water immediately.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

10. Working with various chemicals...• If any part of your body comes in contact with a

chemical, wash the area immediately with cool water.

• If you get anything in your eyes, do not touch them. Wash them immediately and continuously for 15 minutes.

• Hold containers away from your face when pouring liquids.

• If you are asked to smell a substance, do so by wafting the fumes toward you.

Safety in Your Science Classroom

11. Cleaning up the science classroom...• Clean up spills according to your teacher’s

instructions.• Clean all equipment before you put it away. • Wash your hands thoroughly after doing a lab.• Dispose of materials as directed by your

teacher.• The lab should look as tidy when you are

ready to leave, as it did when you first walked in!

Questions?