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Organic Chemistry I
Laboratory Safety

Safety is extremely important in the Organic Laboratory.  The following safety guidelines (adapted from Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories, prepared by the American Chemical Society Committee on Chemical Safety, March 1974) must always be followed.  Remember, in the event of an accident, no matter how minor, always inform the lab instructor immediately. 


Safety goggles must be worn at all times while you are in the lab whether you are actively engaged in experimental work or not.  Goggles must be positioned over your eyes, not on your head.  Contact lenses should never be worn in the laboratory because they cannot be remove rapidly enough if reagents accidentally splash in the eye.

Shorts and short skirts (without a lab coat) may not be worn in the laboratory.  Open-toed shoes (sandals) are also not allowed.  Long hair and loose clothes must be confined while working in the laboratory.

Learn the location and correct use of the nearest fire extinguisher.  Learn the location of the safety shower, eye wash station and first aid kit.  Learn evacuation procedures in the event of a fire.  Be prepared to give help to others.

Drinking, eating or smoking is forbidden in the laboratory.  CHEMICALS NEVER, NEVER, NEVER  GO DOWN THE SINK! Use the appropriate waste containers in the back hood of the lab.
Gloves must be worn when handling all chemicals.  Handle every chemical with care.  Do not use mouth suction to fill pipettes.  Avoid contact with skin and clothing.  Wipe up spills immediately, especially near the balances and reagent shelves.  Replace caps on bottles as soon as possible.  Do not use organic solvents to wash chemicals from your skin as this may actually increase the rate of absorption through the skin.  Avoid the inhalation of organic vapors particularly aromatic solvents and chlorinated solvents.  Use care in smelling chemicals and do not taste them. 

Good chemical hygeine provides the safest work environment.  Each student is responsible for his or her lab bench area and hood area.  In addition, each week assignments will be made for cleaning up areas that are common to everyone in the lab.  Your neatness will be considered when determining your technique grade for the laboratory.