Safety Symbols

Question 0

Breakage

Answer 0

You are working with materials that may be breakable, such as glass containers, glass tubing, thermometers, or funnels. Handle breakable materials with care. Do not touch broken glassware.

Question 1

Safety Goggles

Answer 1

Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes in any activity involving chemicals, flames or heating, or the possibility of broken glassware.

Question 2

Heating

Answer 2

Use a clamp or tongs to pick up hot glassware. Do not touch hot objects with your bare hands.

Question 3

Electric Shock

Answer 3

Avoid the possibility of electric shock. Never use electrical equipment around water, or when the equipment is wet or your hands are wet. Be sure cords are untangled and cannot trip anyone’s. Disconnect the equipment when it is not in use.

Question 4

Corrosive Chemical

Answer 4

You are working with an acid or other corrosive chemical. Avoid getting it on your skin or clothing, or in your eyes. Do not inhale the vapors. Wash your hands when you are finished with the activity.

Question 5

Poison

Answer 5

Do not let any poisonous chemical come in contact with your skin, and do not inhale it’s vapors. Wash your hands when you are finished with the activity.

Question 6

Physical Safety

Answer 6

When an experiment involves physical activity, take precautions to avoid injuring yourself or others. Follow instructions from the teacher. Alert the teacher if there is any reason you should not participate in the activity.

Question 7

Flames

Answer 7

You may be working with flames from a lab burner, candle, or matches. Tie back loose hair and clothing. Follow instructions from the teacher about lighting and extinguishing flames.

Question 8

No Flames

Answer 8

Flammable materials may be present. Make sure there are no flames, sparks, or other exposed heat sources present.

Question 9

Fumes

Answer 9

When poisonous or unpleasant vapors may be involved, work in a ventilated area. Avoid inhaling vapors directly. Only test an odor when directed to do so by the teacher, and use a wafting motion to direct the vapor toward your nose.

Question 10

Hand Washing

Answer 10

Wash your hands thoroughly when finished with the activity. Use antibacterial soap and warm water. Lather both sides of your hands and between your fingers. Rinse well.

Question 11

General Safety Awareness

Answer 11

You may see this symbol when none of the symbols described earlier appear. In this case, follow the specific instructions provided. You may also use this symbol when you are asked to develop our own procedure in a lab. Have the teacher approve your plan before you go further.