A1-How to work safely with chemicals (1 of 3)

Surfaces may have residues from prior use.

Never bring any food or drink into a lab.

Avoid contacting the bench with your skin or cell phone.

Do not touch contaminated gloves to anything (i.e., face, clothing, cell phone, writing instruments, papers, etc.)

Substitute non-hazardous alternatives to chemicals whenever possible. (Link to case study tool).

Minimize exposure through the use of a fume hood & personal protective equipment.

Fume hood sash should be set at highest allowable opening (or lower).

Avoid inhaling fumes.

Never taste, ingest or allow skin contact to chemicals.

Never use lab glassware as food or drink containers.

Long pants

Close toed shoes

Lab coat or apron

Eyewear required for liquids.

Type depends on toxicity, see Step 1 to determine what is needed.

Appropriate gloves to work with the chemicals

Type depends on chemicals, see Step 1 to determine what is needed.

Test gloves by rolling from the open end to ensure there are no unseen holes.

Gloves without holes will maintain pressure of the air.

After normal business hours, do not work alone.

Avoid leaving chemicals unattended.

If needed, fill out the "Unattended Experiment Notice."

Be aware that power and water pressure fluctuates during off hours. Ensure your set up will not become hazardous if there is a loss of power or water pressure.

Notices available at fume hood locations.

Pour concentrated acids or bases into solvents.

Hydration is exothermic; pouring water into concentrates can cause drops to vaporize or "climb up" the pouring stream, releasing dangerous amounts of thermal energy.

For specific molarities or normalities, consult this calculator for the procedure.

Know your potential hazards from the Safety Data Sheet (You will do this in Step 1).

Be familiar with emergency procedures (review in the next guide).