8^th Grade Physical Science

Laboratory Safety Rules and Guidelines

One of the first things a scientist learns is that working in the laboratory can be an exciting experience.  But the laboratory can also be quite dangerous if proper safety rules are not followed at all times.  To prepare for a safe year in the laboratory, read over the following safety rules.  Then read them a second time.  Take them home and go over them with your parent or guardian.  Make sure you understand each rule.  If you do not, ask me to explain any rules you are unsure of immediately.

General Safety Rules

1. Read all directions for an experiment several times.  Follow directions exactly as they are written.  If you are in doubt about any part of the experiment, ask me for assistance.

    

2. Follow proper classroom conduct rules at all times.  Be respectful of your own safety and that of others.

    

3. Never perform activities that are not authorized by me.  Obtain permission before “experimenting” on your own. 

    

4. Never handle any equipment unless you have specific permission.

    

5. Take extreme care not to spill any material in the laboratory.  If a spill occurs, immediately ask me about the proper clean up procedure.  Never simply pour chemicals or other substances into the sink or trash container.

    

6. Never eat during a laboratory activity.

    

7. Do not taste, touch or smell an unknown chemical

    

8. Treat all electrical instruments and dissecting instruments with utmost respect.  Follow instructions for operation of these instruments precisely.

    

9. Wash your hands before and after each experiment

    

Dress Code

10. Many materials in the laboratory can cause eye injury.  To protect yourself from possible injury, wear safety goggles whenever you are working with chemicals, burners, or any substance that might get into your eyes. 

     

11. Tie back long hair to keep it away from any chemicals, burners, and candles or other laboratory equipment.

     

12. Remove or tie back any article of clothing or jewelry that can hang down and touch chemicals and flames.

     

First Aid

13. Immediately report all accidents, no matter how minor, to me.

     

14. Learn what to do in case of specific accidents, such as getting acid in your eyes or on your skin. (Rinse acids from your body with lots of water.)

     

15. Become aware of the location of the first aid kit.  But I should administer any required first aid due to injury, or I may send you to the school nurse.

     

End of Experiment Rules

1. After an experiment has been completed, clean up your work area and return all equipment to its proper place.

    

2. Wash your hands after every experiment

    

3. Turn off all candles and burners before leaving the laboratory.