Why Laboratory Safety Matters
Chemistry laboratories contain hazardous chemicals, flammable materials, and potentially dangerous equipment. Following proper safety procedures protects you, your colleagues, and the environment. Even experienced chemists follow strict safety protocols because accidents can happen to anyone.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Always wear appropriate PPE in the laboratory:
- Safety glasses or goggles - protect eyes from splashes and flying particles
- Lab coat - protects skin and clothing from spills
- Chemical-resistant gloves - choose appropriate material (nitrile, latex, neoprene) for the chemicals involved
- Closed-toe shoes - protect feet from spills and dropped equipment
- Fume hood use - for volatile or toxic chemicals
Chemical Handling Rules
- Never smell chemicals directly - waft vapors gently toward your nose if needed
- Never taste any chemical - even if you think you know what it is
- Read labels carefully - before using any chemical
- Add acid to water, not water to acid - prevents violent exothermic reactions (especially with sulfuric acid)
- Keep chemicals away from heat sources - many are flammable or explosive
- Use proper chemical storage - separate incompatible chemicals (acids from bases, oxidizers from fuels)
Emergency Procedures
Chemical Spills
Know the location of spill kits, safety showers, and eyewash stations before you start work. For acid spills, use sodium bicarbonate to neutralize. For base spills, use citric acid or dilute acetic acid.
Fire
Know the location of fire extinguishers. For small fires, a CO₂ or dry chemical extinguisher is appropriate. Never use water on chemical fires unless certain it is appropriate.
Eye Exposure
Immediately flush eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention after.
General Lab Conduct
- Never work alone in the laboratory
- Keep work areas clean and tidy
- Label all containers clearly
- Dispose of chemicals properly - never pour down the drain without authorization
- Report all accidents, no matter how minor