When it comes to eye safety, there are some situations in which regular safety glasses will work adequately for the needs of the STEM education classroom or laboratory. However, there are certain instances in which safety goggles must be used for safer protection. Taking the time to analyze hazards and assess the risks prior to any activity in the…

Presents a scenario related to the disposal of potentially dangerous ether. Several suggestions for dealing with peroxide-forming compounds are included. (JN)

Presents two scenarios to illustrate the difference between liability and negligence. Also presents highlights of four actual cases related to laboratory security, appropriate facilities, proper instructions, and protective gear. (JN)

Science safety is no accident. It requires the knowledge of potential hazards, attention to detail, and constant supervision. It is important that teachers understand the potential dangers of even the simplest of science activities. This manual is intended to assist elementary teachers in doing experiments and activities more confidently by making…

This module provides safety guidelines for vocational teachers, principals, and students in the vocational shop class, including tips on the prevention and handling of accidents if they occur. It answers questions on student and administrator liability in accident situations. Suggestions are included for increasing the safety of special needs…

This brief guide discusses ways to provide safe instruction and to minimize the risk of injury and potential liability in a laboratory environment. The three main concerns covered are: (1) the physical plant must be in compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA); (2) the physical facility should have all tools in good…

Discusses topics and issues related to conducting dangerous and/or potentially dangerous demonstrations. Includes a number of resources that secondary and college teachers can consult for additional information. (JN)

Summarizes advice from the Laboratory Safeguards Subcommittee of the Association for Science Education related to flames and heat, hazardous chemicals, electricity and dangerous voltages, and mechanical hazards. Knowledge is cited as the key to preventing accidents in physics laboratories. (DH)

Points out the health and legal implications related to laboratory substances that could cause allergic reactions. Presents a list of potential cosmetic allergens and irritants. Includes precautionary measures dealing with allergy situations. (ML)

Safety issues specifically related to the analytical laboratory are discussed including hazardous reagents, transferring samples, cleaning apparatus, eye protection, and equipment damage. Special attention is given to techniques which not only endanger the technician but also endanger expensive equipment. (CW)

Discusses the presentations of chemical demonstrations, hands-on experiments, and magic shows. Presents 12 guidelines to follow when presenting chemical demonstrations. Points out the obligations of the presenters for the safety concerns of the general public. Notes information available from the American Chemical Society. (MVL)

Presents a programed method that inventories and classifies hazards. 8iscusses the following topics: (1) student and hazard source, (2) elimination of the source, (3) adaptation of the source, (4) isolation of the source, (5) adjustment of the surroundings, (6) isolation of man, and (7) personal protective equipment. (MVL)

Designed for high school science teachers, the document warns of potential health threats of performing certain experiments and using certain chemicals or chemical combinations in their courses. Following a rationale for more carefully considering health dangers, the document gives suggestions on what can be done by teachers. Reports such as a…

Determined that an instructional unit on laboratory safety could increase student safety knowledge and reduce the number of unsafe behaviors. A list of unsafe behaviors which were observed with the 333 students is included. A recommendation that positive attitudes toward safety be developed is given. (DH)

Suggests the use of small canopy hoods that provide flexibility of vertical and horizontal adjustment over the lab bench as a replacement for permanent hoods. Includes many safety related instances where canopy hoods should be used. (MVL)