Laboratory Rules and Regulations

1. Students may work in the lab only at the scheduled time and under supervision of the group leader.  Any exceptions to this policy must be worked out with the instructor in advance.
2. No unauthorized experiments may be performed.
3. Student must wear appropriate safety equipment, unless otherwise specified by the instructor.
4. Sandals, flip-flops, or open toe, top or heel shoes of any kind may not be worn in laboratory areas.  Long pants must be worn in all labs. Specifically, there must be no exposed skin between the pants and shoes. Avoid wearing loose sleeves or long hair that may catch in equipment or fall into a flame. Only the forearms may be exposed on the upper torso.  Tank tops, very short sleeves, midriff, and low-cut tops are not allowed. Shirts that expose any other areas of the torso are not permitted.  Instructors may require that you change clothes before starting an experiment. 
5. No food or drink allowed in the lab at any time.  No containers or any food related materials will be visible in the lab at any time; they must be stored in a closed book bag.  No consumption of food or drink in the lab at anytime.
6. Minimize the clutter in your work area.
7. You are responsible for immediately cleaning up any spilled solutions or chemicals.  Inform your instructor of the spill immediately.  Neutralizing agents, protective gloves or other safety equipment will be provided as needed.  Mercury from broken thermometers presents a special type hazard.  Notify the instructor immediately for assistance.  Do not touch Hg globules with your hands.
8. All broken glassware should be cleaned up immediately and placed in the proper broken glass containers.  These containers are for broken glass only, No Trash!
9. Place all wastes in approved and labeled containers.  When in doubt, ask.
10. Use a hood for transferring or working with toxic reagents.  Your instructor will advise your class when these precautions are necessary.  Pregnant students should inform their instructors so proper precautions may be taken.  Also, you may notify your instructor of any allergy or other medical condition they should know about in order to insure your safety in the lab.
11. Never pipette by mouth.  Never stir with a mercury thermometer.  Do not contaminate reagents by pouring leftover materials into the original bottle.
12. Return all glassware and reagents to designated areas before leaving.  Clear off and wipe your workbench area before leaving.
13. Wash hands before leaving lab areas.

Safety in the laboratory is a primary concern to both students and instructors.  None of the experiments you will perform in this course are dangerous if proper procedures are followed, but accidents may still happen, especially to an unprepared or careless student.  Disregard for any of the following procedures will result in immediate dismissal from the lab with grading and disciplinary issues to be addressed on an individual basis.