Lab Safety 2

Summary

This video script emphasizes lab safety, focusing on the dangers of cleaning up after experiments. It advises caution when washing glassware to prevent chemical splashes and stresses the importance of inspecting equipment for damage. Broken glassware should be disposed of in designated containers to protect against injury and contamination. The script also warns against eating, drinking, or playing in the lab, and highlights the proper disposal of waste, including metal and chemical waste, to ensure a safe and enjoyable lab experience.

Takeaways

• 🧪 The cleanup phase of an experiment is a critical time for safety due to potential distraction and the risk of chemical exposure.
• 💡 Be cautious when washing glassware as the chemicals inside can splash out, possibly onto your skin or face.
• 🚰 Always start the water flow before placing glassware under the tap to control the water stream and prevent splashing.
• 🧼 If you find glassware not in its designated storage place, treat it as dirty and either wash it or set it aside for cleaning.
• 🚨 In case of a spill, clean up small ones with paper towels and gloves, and inform the instructor for larger spills.
• 🔍 Inspect glassware for cracks or chips before use, as damaged items can break and cause chemical spills or injury.
• 🗑️ Dispose of broken glass in designated containers to prevent injury to those handling waste and to avoid contamination.
• 🚮 Regular trash should be placed in appropriate bins, and never dispose of metal in regular trash bins due to fire risks.
• 🍽️ Eating and drinking are prohibited in the lab to prevent contamination and ensure a safe working environment.
• 🏺 Do not use ice from lab coolers for personal consumption as it's meant for lab use and not for food or drink.

Q & A

Why is the cleanup period in a lab considered dangerous?

The cleanup period is considered dangerous because it's a time when one's mind might wander, leading to rushing and increased risk of accidents. Additionally, washing lab equipment can be messy, and there's a risk of splashing chemicals on one's skin or face.

What precaution should be taken before washing glassware under running water?

Before washing glassware under running water, one should turn on the water first and adjust the stream to the desired degree before placing the glassware under it to prevent sudden splashing.

What should you do if you find glassware not in its normal storage position in the lab?

If glassware is found not in its normal storage position, it should be assumed to be dirty. One should either wash it or put it aside but not use it without proper cleaning.

How should small spills in the lab be handled?

Small spills should be cleaned up by the individual using paper towels, and gloves should be worn while doing so. For larger spills, the instructor should be called for assistance.

Why is it important to inspect glassware for cracks or chips before use?

Inspecting glassware for cracks or chips is important because damaged glassware can break during heating, leading to chemical spills and potential injuries from splattering.

What should be done with broken glassware in a lab?

Broken glassware should not be thrown in regular trash to avoid injury and contamination. Instead, it should be disposed of in specially labeled glass containers.

Why should metal not be placed in regular trash bins in a lab?

Metal should not be placed in regular trash bins because damp metal can potentially catch fire. There are special, often more expensive, trash bins designed to extinguish fires if they occur.

What is the policy on eating and drinking in the lab as mentioned in the script?

Eating and drinking are not allowed in the lab. This includes not consuming any ice found in lab coolers or bringing food or drinks out during the lab session.

How should one avoid contact with chemicals in the lab?

To avoid contact with chemicals, one should not take big sniffs, taste them, or rub them with fingers. It's crucial to avoid any form of contact or ingestion of chemicals at all times.

What should you do if you break glassware on the floor?

If glassware breaks on the floor, it should be cleaned up using a brush and a broom and pan, and disposed of in the glass waste container, not with bare hands.