Safety in the Science Rooms (Laboratory rules)

1. You must not enter the laboratory unless a teacher is present, and you must not enter any preparation room, store room or the roof top nursery except under the direct instruction of a science teacher.
2. Chemicals must not be removed from the laboratory. Theft will be dealt with severely.
3. Never attempt unauthorised experiments. You must follow instructions exactly.
4. If you see another student using an incorrect procedure, point out the error.
5. All apparatus should be examined carefully before use; it should be clean and in working order. Any damaged or dangerous apparatus must be reported immediately. Check all apparatus before putting it away. It should be undamaged and clean. Keep your work area clean and tidy.
6. Avoid waste. Use only small quantities of chemicals and make sure all gas and water taps are turned off before leaving the laboratory.
7. Most waste liquids can be poured down the sink, flush with water if this is the instructed method of disposal. Most waste solids can be disposed of in the bin. Alternative instructions will be given if required. All waste paper must be placed flat in the Visy recycle box.
8. If there is an accident, inform your teacher immediately.
9. Whenever you are not sure of how to handle a situation consult with your teacher.
10. Do not handle hot objects, allow sufficient time for the apparatus to cool.
11. Use matches to light a bunsen, not pieces of flaming paper.
12. Be very careful with flammable liquids. Do not open or pour flammable liquids near a flame.
13. Handle glass with respect. Broken glass should be swept up immediately, wrapped and placed in the bin. All accidents must be reported to your teacher.
14. Treat ALL chemicals as poisonous. NEVER taste chemicals. Smell with care and only after being instructed to do so. Avoid skin contact or inhaling any chemicals.
15. Wash your hands thoroughly after using chemicals.
16. Do not eat or drink in the science laboratory.
17. Handle electrical equipment with great care.
18. Always leave the Science rooms looking better than you found them.

What to do in case of accidents or injuries: Inform your teacher immediately. Treat splashes in the eye by irrigating the eye with water continuously for several minutes. Flood spills on the skin or clothes with large amounts of water. This also applies to benches. Clean up. Shower burning paper and other burning solids with water. Use the liquid carbon dioxide fire extinguisher on electrical fires. If a person is on fire, shower with water or cover with a fire blanket. Do not use a fire extinguisher.

Safety is always our first concern.

• Irresponsible and dangerous behaviour will result in your parents being informed and may result in the withdrawal of hands-on practical work.
• Careless handling of equipment causing damage or deliberate breakage will result in the student(s) responsible paying for damaged or broken equipment.
• Serious accidents can occur especially through irresponsibility, disobedience and inattention.
• Class behaviour is also important. Unruly classes will not do practical work.

We expect you to work well, safely & enjoy this excellent subject.