Handling chemicals, apparatus and equipments during the conduct of experiments need specific precautionary measures to avoid accidents.

1. Safety Guidelines in the
Laboratory
By Prof. Liwayway Memije-Cruz

2. Laboratory
• a place equipped for experimental
study in science or for testing and
analysis
• a place providing opportunity for
experimentation, observation, or
practice in a field of study

3. Laboratory Safety Procedures
1. Conduct yourself in a responsible manner
at all times in the laboratory
2. Be prepared for your work in the
laboratory. Read all procedures thoroughly
before entering the laboratory. Never fool
around in the laboratory. Horseplay,
practical jokes, and pranks are dangerous
and prohibited.

4. • 3. Observe good housekeeping practices.
Work areas should be kept clean and tidy at
all times.
• 4. Be alert and proceed with caution at all
times in the laboratory. Notify the teacher
immediately of any unsafe conditions you
observe.

5. 5. Keep pathways clear by placing extra items
(books, bags, etc.) on the shelves or under the
work tables. If under the tables, make sure
that these items can not be stepped on.
6. Long hair (chin-length or longer) must be
tied back to avoid catching fire.

6. 7. Wear sensible clothing, a laboratory gown,
including footwear. Loose clothing should be
secured so they do not get caught in a flame or
chemicals.
8. Work quietly — know what you are doing
by reading the assigned experiment before you
start to work. Pay close attention to any
cautions described in the laboratory exercises.

7. 9. Do not taste or smell chemicals.
10. Wear safety goggles to protect your
eyes when heating substances, dissecting,
etc.
11. Never point a test tube being heated
at another student or yourself. Never look
into a test tube while you are heating it.

8. 12. Follow all instructions given by
your teacher.
13. Learn the location of the fire
extinguisher, eye wash station, first
aid kit and safety shower.

9. 14. No eating or drinking in the lab
at any time!
15. Leave your work station clean
and in good order before leaving the
laboratory.

10. References
• http://www.uft.org/chapters/lab-
specialists/lab-safety-rules-for-students
• http://nobel.scas.bcit.ca/debeck_pt/science/s
afety.htm
• ttps://ehs.research.uiowa.edu/52-general-
laboratory-safety-procedures