Chapter 4 Safety and Infection Control 95 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. There are several safety issues to keep in mind while working in the science laboratory. These considerations can also apply to any career that involves working in scientifi c research laboratories, hospital labs, or independent laboratories. There are signifi cant safety risks in the science laboratory. When work- ing in a laboratory, you must adhere to the following guidelines: • Obey all of the rules your instructor or supervisor has posted in the laboratory. These rules are often also printed and given to students. A zero tolerance policy for disobeying safety rules will probably be in effect. • Be aware of all safety symbols in the laboratory. For instance, the label on a bottle of a particular chemical may have a warning symbol indicating that the chemical within the container is fl ammable. Figure 4.2 illustrates some safety symbols that you should be familiar with when working in a laboratory. Laboratory Safety Symbols Safety goggles Safety goggles must be worn to protect the eyes while performing any task that involves chemicals, flames, heating, or glassware. Lab coat A lab coat or apron must be worn to protect the skin and clothing from harm. Gloves When working with harmful chemicals or microorganisms, disposable gloves must be worn at all times. Dispose of used gloves properly. Heat Do not touch hot objects with your bare hands instead use a clamp or tongs. Flames Follow your instructor’s or supervisor’s directions when working with flames. Tie back loose hair and clothing before working with flames. Corrosive chemical When working with a corrosive chemical, avoid contact with the skin, eyes, or clothing and do not inhale the vapors. Wash your hands thoroughly after working with corrosive chemicals. Animal safety Avoid harming any animals or yourself when working in the lab. Wash hands thoroughly after handling any animal. Poison Avoid contact with poisonous substances and do not inhale vapors. Wash hands thoroughly after working with poisonous substances. Scissors Sharps, including scissors, knives, scalpels, or needles must be handled with care to avoid puncturing or cutting the skin. Always direct the sharp point of the object away from yourself and others. Biohazard Materials that are harmful and pose a threat to your health must be handled with care. Avoid contact with biohazards including used needles, toxins, infectious substances, and other medical waste. Ecelop/Shutterstock.com Max Griboedov/Shutterstock.com andromina/Shutterstock.com Miguel Angel Salinas Salinas/Shutterstock.com Barry Barnes/Shutterstock.com Figure 4.2 Test yourself on these laboratory safety symbols. Can you identify each symbol if the label is covered?