Sixth Grade Science Lab Safety Rules The scientific laboratory is a place of adventure and discovery. Some of the most important events in scientific history have happened in labs. One of the first things any scientist learns is that working in the lab can be an exciting experience. However, the lab can also be quite dangerous if proper safety rules are not followed at all times.

DRESS CODE Tie back long hair when working with chemicals or heat. Remove dangling jewelry especially when working with chemicals and glassware. Push up loose sleeves. When working with chemicals and glassware, try to wear closed-toed shoes.

LAB BEHAVIOR Listen to your teacher’s instructions. Listen to and then read all directions for an experiment completely before beginning. Follow the directions EXACTLY as they are written. Only bring your lab sheets and pen or pencil to the lab area. Before beginning any lab, know all of the safety precautions.

LAB BEHAVIOR CONTINUED Do not speak loudly or engage in horse-play in the lab. Only do what you are asked to do. STAY AT YOUR ASSIGNED LAB TABLE.

SAFETY DURING THE LAB Never leave chemical bottles open. Always replace the tops immediately after each use. Never use the same utensil in different chemicals. Do not look directly over a heated container. Report ALL accidents to me immediately. Wear lab aprons and goggles when instructed.

SAFETY DURING THE LAB CONT. Never smell fumes directly. Wave your hand toward your nose to smell. Never eat or drink anything in the lab area. Tell the teacher if glassware is chipped or broken. Never return unused chemicals to their original container.

CLEAN-UP PROCEDURES Wash out all glassware if instructed. Throw all trash in the trashcan….not in the sinks. Straighten up all equipment. Turn off hot plates, microscopes, etc. Sweep around your lab table if needed. Push in the lab stools.

Lab Grades You will get a safety/participation grade for EVERY lab we do. For each safety violation, you will be deducted points from your lab grade that day. For severe or repeated violations, you will receive a ZERO and will be removed from the lab. You may be asked to change lab groups.

THE LAB AREA IS NOT PLAYTIME! IT IS WORK TIME. YOU WOULDN’T SEE SCIENTISTS PLAYING AROUND IN THE LAB AND NEITHER WILL YOU!