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1.3: Laboratory Safety Guidelines
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General Rules
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No guests are allowed in the lab, including children or minors.
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Know emergency procedures, use, and location of emergency equipment (emergency exits, fire extinguishers, fire blanket, eye wash station, first aid kit, and broken glass container).
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In case of fire, evacuate the room and assemble outside the building.
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Report all accidents, no matter how insignificant they appear, to a laboratory supervisor
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Be aware of your surroundings and potential dangers created by others.
Personal Protection
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Do not smoke, eat, drink, chew gum, or apply cosmetics in a laboratory.
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Wear protective clothing such as long pants, closed-toe shoes, a lab coat, and goggles.
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Tie long hair up or behind the shoulders. Do not wear long, dangling jewelry or scarves.
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Dispose of gloves in the laboratory trash. Do not wear lab coats and gloves in public areas. You will need to dispose of gloves and take off your lab coat before leaving the lab.
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Cover cuts or scrapes with a sterile, waterproof bandage before entering a lab.
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Wash skin immediately and thoroughly if contaminated by chemicals or microorganisms.
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Wash your hands regularly, with soap and water, especially after working with things that could be contaminated with bacteria.
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If you have immediate health concerns, please let your lab instructor know immediately.
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Let your lab instructor know before leaving the classroom.
Handling Chemicals
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Keep all containers capped with the appropriate lid. Clearly label items produced in the lab with contents, your name, and the date.
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If a chemical is splashed into the eyes or skin, flush for 15 minutes.
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Clean up spills and broken glass immediately. Use a broom and dustpan to pick up broken glass.
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Keep chemicals away from direct heat or sunlight. Keep containers of alcohol, acetone, and other flammable liquids away from flames.
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Read labels carefully. Be aware of hazardous chemicals and precautions for safe use.
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Follow instructions about the proper disposal of lab reagents.
Handling Equipment
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Keep your work area clean and clutter-free.
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Be aware of your potential impact on others.
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Notify the lab supervisor or instructor of malfunctioning equipment.
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If you do not know how to use an instrument or equipment, then do not touch it.
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Do not use laboratory equipment without first receiving instruction in its use.
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Keep balances clean and dry, always use weigh paper/boats.
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Never leave heat sources unattended. Be careful when using hot plates or burners. Note that there is often no visible flame, glow or sign that objects are hot.