Doing experiments is fun. It gives you time to discover scientific stuff, and it stimulates the mind and the learning process at the same time. In the laboratory, specifically a chemical laboratory, there are many tools and substances that can be useful in why manufacturing jobs are important doing experiments. Some of these substances are flammable, which is why extra precautionary measures, such as the maintenance of fire safety equipment, should be taken into account. Laboratory rules should be strictly implemented to avoid fire at all costs
First, one must thoroughly read the safety information on chemicals. This is available for any chemical in the laboratory, and it is more appropriately called as material safety data sheet. This is very important, because wrong usage could be a burning mistake. So take the time to read, and strictly follow the use for all chemicals and their proper disposal.
Speaking of proper disposal, never throw anything anywhere. Again, read instructions. Chemicals are highly reactive, so even the simple washing down of a chemical down the drain can be catastrophic in due time. This is because some chemicals and solutions don’t easily slip off the drain. Some can even explode when thrown and mixed with others. So always be wary when getting rid of leftovers after each laboratory work.
Next, you should dress appropriately. The laboratory is not a place for fashion, so keep it down and simple. Wear your lab gown, your protective eye gear, and any other equipment for your protection. Accidents can happen anywhere, even in laboratories, and there have been many reports of people stumbling over acids, spilling chemicals on their skin, and setting themselves on fire just because they are not properly dressed.
Also, don’t touch anything with your bare hands. More so, don’t taste or smell anything. Improper handling of chemicals and solutions can be dangerous, so do not shake anything. Simple sniffing can needs of manufacturing industry also be very harmful, and if you were instructed to use chemicals inside fume hoods, then use them only there. This way, you could keep yourself away from danger and from possible fire accidents.
Next, do not play inside the laboratory. Act maturely and avoid fooling around at all times. Pay attention to what you are doing and never attempt to do anything that you are not sure of. Ask for instructions, and do not stray away from these. An example is mixing the wrong chemicals or mixing the correct chemicals in wrong amounts. Such rashness could result to explosive results, literally.
Finally, know all the safety equipment inside the laboratory. It’s not enough that you know these, but you should also learn how to use them. Accidents happen without you knowing that they will happen, or otherwise it would not have been an accident. So know where the fire blankets are, the fire extinguisher signs, the eyewash, and the shower. Laboratory fires caused by chemicals and solutions can be hard to put out, so always be cautious when inside the laboratory. Besides, you are experimenting in laboratories to learn, and not to play with fire.
