Basic Rules and Procedures

For Working in the Biology Laboratory

Grand Rapids Community College

 

 

  1. Laboratory attire:  Safety in the laboratory begins with proper lab attire.  The following rules will be strictly enforced:
    1. Approved safety goggles and gloves must be worn in the proper manner when the lab procedures indicate their necessity.
    2. Individuals who wear glasses for vision correction are required to wear safety goggles over their corrective eyewear.

 

We strongly suggest that:

a.          long hair be tied back.

b.          Long flowing or baggy sleeves not be worn.

c.          Shoes cover the entire foot.

d.          Older clothes be worn as laboratory chemicals will often stain clothes.

 

  1. General laboratory procedures:  For your safety, the following rules will be strictly enforced.
    1. Food and drink are not allowed in the laboratory.
    2. Handle and store lab equipment with care to avoid damage.  Never work with damaged glassware.
    3. Use equipment only for its designated purpose.
    4. Practical jokes or other behaviors that may distract anyone else will not be tolerated in the laboratory.
    5. Keep your work area clean and uncluttered during the laboratory.
    6. Keep the walkways clear.  Backpacks should be stored under your work area or at the lab entrance.
    7. Thoroughly clean your work area and equipment prior to leaving lab.  Push in your chair so that the aisle remains clear for those entering the lab next.

 

  1. Working with chemicals:  For your safety, you must adhere to the following rules.  Your instructor may provide additional instructions for handling specific chemicals.
    1. Do not taste or ingest any chemical in the laboratory.
    2. Do not inhale fumes or vapors when working in the lab.  Use fume hoods when instructed.
    3. If chemicals are spilled, notify your instructor immediately.
    4. If chemicals come in contact with your skin, wash the area immediately and notify your instructor.
    5. Wash your hands after completing an experiment.
    6. Do not put chemicals back into their stock containers.
    7. Separate and dispose of chemical waste according to your instructorÕs directions.
    8. Do not remove any chemicals from the laboratory.

 

  1. First Aid:  Notify your instructor immediately if any of the following incidents occur:
    1. Chemicals come in contact with your eyes (flush them with water for 15 minutes using the eyewash stations located in the prep room hallway).
    2. You feel nausea or dizziness.
    3. You ingest chemicals.
    4. Your skin itches, burns, hurts, or a rash develops (flush the area with water).
    5. You cut yourself (a first aid kit is hanging on the wall at the front of the room).

 

 

 

 

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Signature                                                                                            Printed Name                                                       Course                                 Date

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                Student Copy