Lab Safety Equipment The Science Duo Lab Safety

Lab Safety Equipment © The Science Duo

Lab Safety Equipment • Used to protect the body from injury or assist in responding to an emergency • It is important to know the location of the safety equipment in the room • Proper use of safety equipment can help to reduce or prevent dangerous situations

Goggles • Used to cover and protect the eyes Reasons to Wear Goggles 1. Working with chemicals 2. Working with heat or fire 3. Working with sharp objects 4. When instructed to do so by your teacher

Fire Extinguisher • Used to put out paper fires, trash fires, or larger fires • Aim the nozzle at the base of the flame and squeeze the handle • A fire extinguisher should never be sprayed on a person – can cause skin and eye irritation, breathing difficulty, or other serious health concerns • If a fire becomes too large it is best to evacuate the building and call for help

Fire Blanket • Used to smother small fires by removing oxygen from the flame • Made of fire resistant materials – some are woven fiberglass and others are wool • A person can be wrapped in a fire blanket and rolled to help smother a clothing fire

Eye Wash Station • Used to flush eyes with water due to a chemical splash or foreign object causing severe harm • Keep eyes open and roll eyes in all directions • Completely flush eyes with water for at least 15 – 20 minutes

Safety Shower • Used to wash off large chemical spills on the body or clothing • Pull handle and stand directly under the flow of water – do not waste time taking off articles of clothing • Completely rinse the harmful chemicals or acid off of your body