1A3 Lab Equipment and Safety

Question 2

Why is the regular maintenance of laboratory equipment important?

Answer 2

To ensure safety and increase consistency between experiments.

Proper maintenance helps in achieving reliable results in laboratory settings.

Question 4

How can you properly store a microscope when not in use?

Answer 4

Cover the microscope to prevent it from getting dirty or damaged.

This is a simple yet effective measure for prolonging the life of the microscope.

Question 5

What materials should be used to clean a microscope?

Answer 5

Use lint-free materials such as Kimwipes, optical wipes, or lens paper to clean the lenses.

For stubborn debris, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol to the wipe. Avoid using rough tissues or cloths, as they may scratch the optics.

Question 6

What are the best practices for maintaining thermometers?

Answer 6

• Store thermometers properly.
• Do not use as a stirring device.
• Keep away from open flames.
• Insert carefully to avoid breaking.
• Wash after each use.

Proper handling and storage can prevent damage and ensure accuracy.

Question 7

What is lab safety?

Answer 7

It refers to a set of protocols and best practices designed to prevent accidents, minimize hazards, and ensure a safe working environment.

Lab safety includes understanding safety rules and using safety equipment effectively.

Question 8

What does PPE stand for?

Answer 8

Personal Protective Equipment

PPE includes gear worn to minimize exposure to hazards, such as gloves or lab goggles.

Question 9

List three examples of PPE commonly used in laboratories.

Answer 9

• Lab coats
• Lab goggles
• Lab gloves

PPE is crucial for protecting against hazardous materials.

Question 10

What is the purpose of emergency eye wash stations in a laboratory setting?

Answer 10

To immediately flush the eyes with water or saline solution in the event of chemical exposure, dust, or foreign particles.

This helps to reduce irritation and prevent serious eye injuries. The eye showers consist of a small sink with two steady inverted streams of water.

Question 11

What is the minimum water flow rate required for emergency showers in compliance with OSHA regulations?

Answer 11

At least 20 gallons per minute for at least 15 continuous minutes.

OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a federal agency that provides guidelines for laboratories. Emergency showers are critical for rinsing off hazardous materials from the skin.

Question 13

What type of safety equipment is essential for controlling small fires in the lab?

Answer 13

Fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible in case of emergencies.

Question 14

What essential items should be included in a laboratory first aid kit?

Answer 14

• Bandages
• Gauze
• Sterile dressings
• Antiseptic wipes
• Gloves

First aid kits are essential for addressing minor injuries that occur in the lab.

Question 15

What is the function of ventilation hoods in laboratories?

Answer 15

To contain, capture, and remove airborne particles produced during chemical reactions.

Ventilation hoods help maintain a safe working environment by controlling airflow.

Question 16

Why is it important to know the locations of safety equipment in the lab?

Answer 16

To ensure quick access in case of an emergency.

Clear pathways to all safety stations are also crucial.

Question 17

What precautions should be taken when storing chemical containers that are not in use?

Answer 17

*Always close tightly
*Store in appropriate areas
*Label clearly

Proper handling of chemicals is crucial for safety.

Question 18

Why is it important to properly label containers in a lab?

Answer 18

Proper labeling helps prevent accidental misuse and ensures that the correct handling and storage procedures are followed for safety.

Question 19

What key information should be included in a lab safety manual?

Answer 19

• Lab safety rules
• Chemical inventory list
• Safety data sheets
• Emergency telephone numbers

Access to a safety manual ensures laboratory employees are informed about safety procedures.

Question 20

What is the role of the lab manager regarding safety equipment?

Answer 20

To inspect safety equipment regularly and ensure proper working order.

Annual professional recertification of safety equipment is also important.

Question 21

What instruments are commonly used to measure length in the laboratory?

Answer 21

*Ruler
*Meter stick.

Rulers can be hand-held or long, such as meter sticks.

Question 22

How is mass measured in the laboratory?

Answer 22

Using a balance.

A balance provides mass readings in grams.

Question 23

What instrument is used to measure temperature?

Answer 23

Thermometer

Temperature is measured in degrees Celsius (°C).

Question 25

What is a graduated cylinder used for?

Answer 25

Measuring the volume of liquids accurately.

Graduated cylinders are more accurate than beakers.

Question 26

What is the purpose of a pipette in the laboratory?

Answer 26

To measure and transfer exact volumes of liquid.

There are volumetric and graduated pipettes.

Question 27

What is the function of a Bunsen burner?

Answer 27

To produce a flame for heating substances.

It was developed by Robert Bunsen.

Question 28

What laboratory equipment is used to heat glassware using electricity?

Answer 28

Hot plate

Some hot plates have magnetic stirrers.

Question 29

What tools are commonly used for **dissection** in the laboratory?

Answer 29

* forceps * scalpels * dissecting scissors ## Footnote Protective eyewear and gloves should also be used.

Question 30

How are **test tubes** used in biology labs?

Answer 30

To **hold liquids** for observation, mixing, or conducting chemical reactions. ## Footnote Test tube holders are used to manage multiple test tubes.

Question 31

# Fill in the blank: The most accurate way to **measure liquid volume** in a laboratory is with a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

Answer 31

graduated cylinder

Question 32

# True or False: Beakers provide **more accurate volume measurements** than graduated cylinders.

Answer 32

False ## Footnote Graduated cylinders provide more accurate measurements.

Question 33

List three types of **equipment commonly used for heating substances** in a lab.

Answer 33

* Bunsen burner * Hot plate * Electric heater

Question 34

What are the two most common types of **pipettes**?

Answer 34

* Volumetric pipette * Graduated pipette

Question 36

What is an **analytical balance** used for?

Answer 36

Measures the mass of a substance with great precision. ## Footnote It weighs samples in a closed chamber to prevent air currents from affecting measurements.

Question 37

List the steps required to measure something **using a balance**.

Answer 37

* Turn on the balance and reset it. * Place an empty measuring paper or weighing container on the balance. * Press 'tare' to zero out the mass. * Add the sample and record the mass. ## Footnote An alternative is to weigh the paper or container with the sample and subtract the mass of the paper, but this is less accurate.

Question 38

What are the **common types of glassware** used in laboratories?

Answer 38

* Test tubes * Volumetric flask * Beaker * Erlenmeyer flask * Graduated cylinder * Florence flask * Pipette * Burette ## Footnote Each type serves specific functions in experiments.

Question 39

# Define: Calibration

Answer 39

The process of configuring an instrument to ensure it **provides accurate and reliable measurements**. ## Footnote Example: This is achieved by comparing the instrument’s output with a known standard or reference to make any necessary adjustments.

Question 40

What are the recommended practices for **maintaining laboratory glassware**?

Answer 40

* Clean immediately after use. * Always inspect for cracks. * Store properly to avoid contamination or breakage. ## Footnote Damaged glassware can compromise experiment safety and accuracy.

Question 41

How should you **respond** to a **fire** in the laboratory?

Answer 41

* Alert others. * Use the appropriate fire extinguisher. * Evacuate if the fire cannot be controlled. ## Footnote Fire extinguishers are classified based on the type of fire, such as chemical or electrical.