Understanding Safety Rules & Safety Symbols
Introduction
Safe practice when conducting any scientific activity is essential. Some experiments you perform may not have safety issues, but many activities in science do. One of the great things about taking a science course is the opportunity for hands-on learning. Some activities involve chemicals such as acids, bases, poisonous salts, and flammable materials. Even chemicals found in the home must be handled with care.
Go to the Virtual Science Laboratory to learn more about science safety.
Two very important safety rules are:
- Always carefully read through the instructions before beginning an activity, and
- Never taste anything or directly smell an unknown chemical.
In the following activity you will be introduced to the basic safety symbols that are found on household cleaners and on bottles in your classroom. Before beginning an experiment, you should always familiarize yourself with the hazards associated with the substances you will use. Even vinegar has safety issues surrounding its use.
