Chemistry Lab Safety

Summary

In this safety briefing for the Palm Beach State chemistry lab, Sean Sky Candy emphasizes the importance of following lab protocols. Key rules include always wearing safety goggles, a lab coat, closed-toe shoes, and securing long hair. There's a strong focus on handling chemicals safely, knowing emergency equipment locations, and using proper techniques when dealing with spills, burns, or broken glassware. Additional reminders include no eating, drinking, or smoking, as well as practicing good hygiene by washing hands and wiping down lab stations. The session concludes with a reminder to stay safe and avoid accidents.

Takeaways

• 👓 Always wear safety goggles in the lab to protect your eyes.
• 👕 It's advised to wear a lab coat to protect your clothing and skin.
• 👟 No flip-flops allowed; wear shoes that cover the tops of your feet.
• 👖 Long, loose-fitting pants are recommended to protect from chemical spills.
• 💇‍♀️ Hair must be tied back, especially for those with long hair.
• 🚫 No eating, drinking, or smoking (including e-cigarettes) in the lab.
• 🧤 Always handle hot objects with heat-resistant gloves or tongs.
• 💧 Know the location of emergency equipment like eye wash stations, showers, and fire extinguishers.
• ⚠️ Treat all chemicals as hazardous and always read labels twice before use.
• 🔥 In case of fire, stop, drop, and roll if clothing catches fire, and notify the instructor immediately.

Q & A

What should you do before starting any lab experiment?

You should thoroughly read the instructions before starting any lab experiment.

Why is it important to wear safety goggles in the lab?

Safety goggles protect your eyes from chemical splashes, and they must be worn at all times in the lab.

What additional protective clothing is recommended besides goggles?

A lab coat is recommended to protect your clothing and skin, along with shoes that cover the top of your feet, and long, loose-fitting pants.

Are flip-flops allowed in the chemistry lab?

No, flip-flops are not allowed in the lab. Shoes must cover the top of your feet for protection.

What should be done in case of a small burn in the lab?

If you get a small burn, immediately go to the sink and rinse the affected area with cool water.

What safety equipment should you familiarize yourself with in the lab?

You should familiarize yourself with exits, the eye wash station, the emergency shower, the emergency shutoff switches, fume hoods, and the fire extinguisher.

How should chemicals be handled in terms of labeling and hazardous materials?

Treat all chemicals as hazardous, and always read labels twice to ensure you are using the correct chemical.

What is the proper way to handle broken glassware in the lab?

Notify your instructor immediately, and they will guide you on how to safely use the broom and dustpan to clean up. Broken glassware should only be disposed of in the designated broken glass container.

What should you do in the event of a chemical spill?

Notify your instructor right away. Depending on the spill, they will instruct you to use a spill kit or paper towels. For chemical spills on clothing, remove the affected clothing and rinse the area immediately.

What is the correct procedure if a chemical splashes into your eyes?

Immediately go to the eye wash station and rinse your eyes for at least 15 minutes or until the chemical is fully removed.

How should you handle stock reagents to avoid contamination?

Never return unused chemicals to the stock bottle. Share them with another student or dispose of them as instructed.

What should you do if a fire occurs in the lab?

Notify your instructor immediately, and they will provide instructions on how to handle the fire. If your clothing catches fire, stop, drop, and roll immediately.

What hygiene practice is essential after working in the lab?

Always wash your hands thoroughly before leaving the lab to avoid any chemical exposure.