Safety Rules and Procedures
- Know what WHMIS is, and what the Safety Sheets are to look at the different chemicals that are used within the lab environment.
- Know how to use the fire extinguishers, and when it is appropriate to use them.
- Report all injuries and illnesses to lab staff immediately, DO NOT wait!
- If you notice a gas leak, or other sort of leak, make sure that you mention to the lab staff.
- Clean up spills and broken glass and other equipment using the prescribed outlines that are provided by your lab. Some like Mercury requires special precautions
- If you hear the fire alarm, close all doors to the lab, and make sure that you quickly turn off everything such as gas, and other components that you may be using. Then evacuate.
- Have regular safety meetings with the lab staff to go through policies and procedures that are needed while in the lab!
- Long hair tied back If you're wearing a tie tuck it inside your blouse/shirt or remove it to avoid accidents.
- If possible, stand up and put stools elsewhere so that if something spills then you can move back faster
- Keep your desk (work area) clean
- Always wear either long sleeves or a lab coat due to splashing of chemicals. In addition, closed toe shoes are a must. So no sandals or flip flops! Be sure to roll up your sleeves or wear a short-sleeved shirt if you're working with heat or open flame.
- No food or drink in the lab - mistakes and contamination can be deadly
- No horseplay or practical jokes (focus on your work)
- Use of potentially dangerous chemicals limited to knowledgeable staff
- No chipped or cracked glassware
- Learn the proper insertion of rubber stoppers into glass tubes
- All cuts burns etc. reported and treated, no exceptions
- All gas cylinders chained to the wall
- No experiment left alone
- No "Wonder what happens if I do this" experiments
- Do not pick up or move flasks or other containers holding chemicals unless absolutely necessary. Fewer mistakes means fewer accidents. When you must move a container, use BOTH HANDS to make sure you have a firm grip, and always make sure your travel path is clear.
- Read all labels thoroughly. Make sure you know what you're using and its proper use!
- Do not rush through instructions - pay close attention to all details, especially any precautions
- always watch out for spills and slippery liquids.
The only safety rules for ANY laboratory that you are thinking about working in are the ones that the laboratory requires and should be clearly explained to you before you even enter it. The rest is opinion.
