General Rules
How do you conduct yourself in the laboratory?
You conduct yourself in a responsible manor at times in the laboratory.
Should I wear my hair down and wear baggy clothing?
No, you should tie your hair up and secure your baggy clothing. Shoes must completely cover your feet.
What should I do if I spill or break something in the laboratory?
Tell your teacher immediately even if it does not seem like a big deal. Try to be careful with all equipment and chemicals.
How do I know a chemicals contents and how much I need?
Check the label on the chemical bottles twice before taking anything out. The instructions that your teacher give you will tell you how much you need.
How should I carry glass tubing in the laboratory?
Carry glass tubing in a vertical position to reduce breakage chances.
Should I work alone in the laboratory?
No, never work alone in the laboratory. Always have an instructor present in the laboratory.
What should I be wearing when I am around chemicals?
You should be wearing goggles while exposed to chemicals, heat, and glassware.
What if the teacher is not paying attention and I hurt myself?
If you or your partner are hurt yell out "Code one, Code one" to get your teachers attention.
If I don't use all of the chemicals I poured out in the lab can I put them back into their bottles?
Never put any unused chemicals back into their bottles.
Should I just take glass out of the cabinet right away without looking at it?
Always look at the glassware before using it. Never used cracked, chipped, or dirty glassware?
Can I touch the lab equipment when I enter the room?
No, do not touch any lab equipment until you are told to by your teacher.
Can I wear my contact lenses during any sort of lab?
Contact lenses can be worn during a lab, but you must still wear goggles protect your eyes from dangerous chemicals.
What if a chemical gets in my eye or on my skin?
Flush it out immediately with water at the eyewash station for at least 20 minutes. Tell you teacher right away if this occurs.
Can I take my chemicals out of the laboratory and down the hall?
Never take chemicals or other materials out of the laboratory area.
What should I do if I don't know how to use a piece of equipment?
Ask your teacher for help. it is much better to ask them for help then trying to figure it out on your own.
Should I run around the laboratory?
Never fool around in the laboratory. Jokes and pranks are strictly prohibited.
Is there any other clothing item besides goggles and gloves I should be wearing during labs?
Lab aprons are provided during a lab to protect your body from chemicals and heat.
What should I do if a mercury thermometer is broken?
Do NOT touch the mercury. Instead tell your teacher immediately.
If I am moving my chemicals should I hold them right next to me?
When moving chemicals always move them slowly and carefully and make sure to hold them far away yourself.
Should I use cold water on hot glass while rinsing it?
No, do not use cold water of hot glass. This may cause the glass to shatter.
Should I start my lab before reading the instructions?
No, read all the instructions thoroughly and carefully before starting your lab.
Can I wear jewelry during a lab?
Dangling jewelry is not allowed in the laboratory. You must secure or take of your jewelry immediately.
Should I run around with lab equipment filled with chemicals in my hand?
No, always walk around the laboratory carefully and slowly whether you have equipment or not. Running around can lead to breaking things, spills, and injuries.
How should I handle flammable liquids during a lab?
Handle flammable liquids over a pan to contain spills. Do not dispose of these liquids over an open flame or heat source.
If there is broken glass how should I clean it up?
Do not use your bare hands to clean up the glass. Use a dustpan and brush to clean up the glass. If you have a designated glass disposal container then put the broken glass in there.