Describes laboratory inspection forms developed by the New York section of the American Chemical Society and recommends that they be used by qualified college safety officers. Includes instructions on how to order full-size copies of the forms suitable for duplication. (SK)

In response to the Texas Hazardous Communication Act (THCA) of 1986 which raised many new health and liability issues regarding students in science laboratories, a laboratory safety survey was generated for use in evaluating laboratory safety. This article contains the easy-to-use survey. (ZWH)

A survey and hearing test of 46 male agriculture teachers in West Virginia had the following results: (1) 36 had some high- frequency hearing loss; (2) 66% did not receive information on hearing in college; (3) 35% never wear hearing protection; (4) 51% have trouble getting students to use safety equipment; and (5) only 9% have had the sound…

Presents a creative set-up that allows students with latex allergies full participation in chemistry labs. Discusses how one student having a latex allergy is turned into a learning experience for all and how this challenged lab safety. (ASK)

Addresses bloodborne pathogen hazards in the laboratory. Provides specific recommendations for preventative measures and information about legal issues involved. (MM)

As heat sources go, the old standby for elementary and middle school science laboratories has been the centuries old alcohol lamp. Unfortunately, this inexpensive heat producer has been a continuous source of accidents--many of which are relatively serious. Hot plates are emerging as the most popular source of heat for science experiments. The…

The disposal of hazardous chemicals and chemical containing products is of much concern and there is a need for a document that describes the hazards of a chemical, to consider the precautionary measures to be taken. Many classic demonstrations however cannot be performed due to safety concerns since sometimes chemicals are deemed too hazardous or…

The widely used method of synthesizing HCl and DCl gases for infrared analysis by hydrolysis of benzoyl chloride includes a potentially dangerous final step whereby the frozen product is allowed to heat and expand into an infrared gas cell. The subsequent rapid rise in vapor pressure can "pop" open glass joints in the vacuum line and vent the…

A successful microscale fusion of semicarbazones, or transformation of carbonyl compounds into semicarbazones is performed through an effective grinding system. The donning of protective attire is advised to avoid the hazardous effects of semicarbazide hydrochloride during the fusion process.

The hazards of silver used in the laboratories are described for the benefit of the students and the teachers. The exposure limits and symptoms due to acute exposures are also mentioned.

The hazards caused by calcium used in the laboratories are described. The exposure limits and symptoms of acute exposures are mentioned.

Described are case studies illustrating chemical hazards in a photography lab due to compounds containing cyanide. Suggestions for preventing problems including proper procedures, housekeeping, facilities, and ventilation are considered. (RH)

Background information is provided on the registered trademark "TLV" (Threshold Limit Value), the term used to express tolerable concentrations. The TLV of a compound is an estimate extrapolated from some defined damage to humans or animals at higher concentrations or by drawing analogies between similar concentrations. (JN)

Indicates that academe must emphasize professional responsibility for chemical health and safety and engender a similar concern in students. Suggests this may be accomplished both by informing students and by helping them make reasoned decisions concerning their exposure to these hazards. (Author/JN)