General Lab Rules
What should you do if you don't understand a procedure?
Ask the instructor before proceeding
What type of eyewear is required when using chemicals?
Laboratory goggles
What should you do if you or your partner gets hurt?
Immediately alert the instructor.
How should you treat all chemicals in the lab?
Consider all chemicals dangerous; do not touch, taste, or smell unless instructed.
What should you never do with a lit burner?
Leave it unattended
Why is it important to keep aisles clear in the lab?
To prevent accidents and ensure safety.
What type of shoes are allowed in the lab?
Shoes that completely cover the foot, no sandals.
What is the first thing to do if a chemical splashes in your eye?
Flush with running water from the eyewash station for at least 20 minutes.
What is the proper method for smelling chemical vapors?
Use your hand to gently wave, or waft, the vapors towards your nose.
What should you do if you need to heat a test tube?
Never point the open end at yourself or anyone else while it is heating
Why should you never work alone in the laboratory?
To ensure that there is supervision and assistance in case of an emergency.
What should you do with long hair during lab activities?
Tie back long hair to prevent it from getting caught in equipment or chemicals.
What immediate action should you take for a minor spill?
Report it to the instructor, regardless of how trivial it may appear.
What should you do with unused chemicals?
Dispose of them appropriately, do not return them to the original container.
Why should hot glass not be immersed in cold water?
It could cause the glass to break due to thermal shock.
What materials should you bring to your work area?
Only laboratory instructions, worksheets, reports, or lab notebooks.
What type of clothing is prohibited in the lab?
loose or baggy clothing and dangling or bulky jewelry
What should you do if you break a mercury thermometer?
Notify the instructor immediately, do not touch the mercury.
What is the danger of using mouth suction for a pipet?
It can introduce hazardous chemicals into your mouth.
How should you treat heated metals and glass?
Allow them to cool, or use tongs or heat -protective gloves.
What is the procedure for disposing of chemical waste?
Why must students wear lab aprons?
To protect their clothing and skin from spills and splashes
How do you report an emergency in the lab?
Notify the instructor immediately and follow their instructions
How should you handle acids?
With extreme care, always add the acid to water (or any other solution unless otherwise instructed)
How do you tell if a glass is hot or cool without touching it?
carefully bring the back of your hand near the glass without touching it, or ask an instructor.