Lab Safety

If something catches fire, what should you do?

• Throw water on the fire.

• Put it out with the fire extinguisher.

• Tell the teacher.

Answer explanation

You should always tell the teacher first. They will take care of it.

Water might make the fire worse. You might not need to use the fire extinguisher, or you might not have the right training.

When should you wear eye protection in the lab?

• Any time we use fire.

• Any time we use chemicals.

• Any time we use fire or chemicals.

Answer explanation

Heat, chemicals, and broken glass can all injure your eyes. Goggles make sure you don't get hurt!

If you get hurt during a lab, what should you do?

• Tell the teacher immediately.

• See a doctor after school.

• Tough it up and ignore it.

Answer explanation

Many chemical injuries can get worse with time, so make sure to get it taken care of immediately!

What should be done with long hair in the lab?

• Cut it off.

• Tie it back.

• Style it with the chemicals.

Answer explanation

While I won't stop you from getting a haircut, all you really need to do is tie it back and be careful!

After you finish an experiment, what should you do with extra chemicals?

• Dispose of them as instructed by the teacher.

• Leave them at your station for the next group.

• Dump liquids down the sink, throw solids in the trash.

Answer explanation

Remember: you shouldn't leave chemicals unattended unless told it's safe to do so! Also, some chemicals are unsafe or illegal to throw out or dump down the sink.

Which of the following is dangerous to wear in a lab? [Choose all that apply!]

• Loose and baggy clothing.

• Dangling jewelry.

• Sandals.

Answer explanation

All of these types of clothing can risk an accident or a more serious injury from an accident! Avoid them all!

Tags

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

In the lab, horseplay is...

• ...lots of fun.

• ...never acceptable.

• ...fine if you're working alone.

Answer explanation

Horseplay in the lab is never acceptable, even if you're by yourself! You can still injure yourself.

If you're confused about a step during a lab, what should you do?

• Skip that part of the lab.

• Ask the teacher.

• Try a few things to see what works.

Answer explanation

Never just do things in a lab! Even skipping parts of the lab can be a problem!

How do we put out somebody who is on fire?

• Stop, drop, roll, and pray.

• Spray them with the fire extinguisher.

• Wrap them in the fire blanket to put it out.

Answer explanation

Stop, drop, and roll may not be enough for a chemical fire. Fire extinguishers can have harsh chemicals or be too cold.

How long do you need to use the eye wash station for if you get chemicals in your eye?

• Just a few seconds.

• Fifteen minutes.

• An hour or more.

Answer explanation

Fifteen minutes is enough for most chemical contamination, but individual chemicals may have specific safety instructions.