Exercise 1: Lab Safety

Question 0

Glassware is the most dangerous lab item. Describe proper clean up.

Answer 0

• report to instructor
• sweep up immediately
• dispose of in ‘sharps box’ or tape shut into a box to warn custodians.

Question 1

List Lab Safety Rules.

Answer 1

1: no outsiders or unenrolled students in lab.
2: never perform changes or unauthorized labs without permission
3: no food, drink, smoking in lab
4: always wash hands before and after labs and spills
5: wear proper shoes
6: call out unsafe practices
7: never pipettes by mouth
8: immediately report spills and injuries
9: inform instructor of limiting medical conditions.

Question 2

Describe procedure for inserting glass into stopper.

Answer 2

• never dry force glass rod into cork/rubber stopper hole without lubricant such as glycerin or soapy water.
• always push rod near stopper. Reduces torque and pressure.

Question 3

List guidelines for proper use of Electrical Equipment??

Answer 3

• completely uncoil cords before plugging in. Inspect cords and electrical aspects for fraying or other damage.
• do not force plugs into outlet. Inform instructor.
• unplug devices by pulling on plug, not cord.
• never plug or unplug in a wet area.

Question 4

Describe Lab Instruments and safety rules.

Answer 4

1: Microscope:
-never swing. Always carry
with 2 hands
-use only special lens paper
and cleaner to preserve
optical coatings and
adhesives
-always unwrap cord
completely
-unplug by pulling plug, not
cord
2: Dissection Tools:
-always cut away from
yourself and never force
through tissue
-use small strokes for
increased control
-dispose of blades in sharps
container
-wash all instruments after
dissection

Question 5

Describe procedure for changing disposable blades.

Answer 5

-wash blade before removal
-examine blade and handle prior
-determine proper fit
-don’t force blade into handle
-

Question 6

Tissue preservatives prevent decay and are irritants to skin and mucous membranes. List protective guidelines for proper use.

Answer 6

• if pregnant, limit exposure
• always wear gloves and glasses
• ask instructor to activate fans if odor bothers you
• drain as much preservative before dissection back into specimen container or other provided. NEVER DOWN THE DRAIN
• clean up all spills and your work area when done. Dispose of gloves, etc in biohazard container.

Question 7

For safety, dispose of hazardous waste in specially labeled containers. List the proper procedures.

Answer 7

1: Chemical Waste:
-instructor will indicate
proper disposal, such as
dedicated waste
containers.
2: Preservatives and Specimens:
-NEVER DOWN DRAIN
-dispose in proper waste
containers