Science Laboratory Code of Conduct

Science Department
International School of Dongguan
 Student Lab Safety Guidelines

1. Students should conduct themselves professionally and responsibly.

2. Before conducting an activity, students must read all laboratory and safety operating
procedures and carefully follow all verbal and written instructions. If unsure of the
procedure, ask your teacher for help before proceeding.
3. Students must not touch any equipment or chemicals unless specifically instructed to
do so.
4. Students must not eat, drink, apply cosmetics, chew gum, touch contact lenses, wear
acrylic nails, or conduct other unsafe activities in the laboratory. Wash hands
thoroughly with soap and water after participating in laboratory activities (including
setup, hands-on, and takedown).
5. Students must perform only those experiments authorized by the teacher.
6. Students will receive training on the locations and operating procedures for all
applicable personal protective equipment (PPE).
7. Students must not enter or work in the laboratory unless an instructor is present.
8. Students must never enter chemical storage or preparation areas.
9. Students should be trained to know the location and how to operate all safety
equipment and engineering controls in the science classroom and laboratory. This
includes the eyewash station, the deluge shower, the fire extinguisher, the fume hood,
and the safety blanket. Students should also know the location of emergency master
electrical and gas shutoffs and exits.
10. Students’ backpacks, books, or other items are to remain in an area designated by the
instructor. They should not be brought into the laboratory area to prevent potential
cross-contamination involving chemical hazards and potential slip, trip, and fall
hazards.
11. Student work areas should be kept orderly and uncluttered and cleaned at the end of
each laboratory investigation or activity.
 12. Students must turn off all gas burners and electrical equipment and follow local
instructions in the event of a fire drill, lockdown, or other emergency during an
investigation or activity.

Handling Chemicals and Equipment

1. Students must not return unused chemicals to the reagent container. Always properly
dispose of all chemical waste as directed by the teacher.
2. Students must never enter or remain in the science laboratory areas unless accompanied by
a teacher or a designated school employee.
3. Students must wear eye protection, a non-latex apron, and nitrile gloves whenever
chemicals, heat, or glassware are used by the teacher or the students in the laboratory.
4. Students should always wear appropriate personal apparel in the laboratory and avoid
wearing loose or flammable clothing. Closed-toe shoes are required. Flip-flops, sandals,
or open or exposed footwear are prohibited. Long hair should be tied back.
5. Students must immediately report any incident (including all spills, breakages, or other
releases of hazardous materials) to the teacher, no matter how insignificant it may appear.
This should include all injuries such as cuts, burns, breathing problems, or other signs of
physical harm. Students are encouraged to report incidents that do not result in physical
harm so that lessons can be learned from these “near misses”.
6. Students must never remove chemicals, equipment, or supplies from the laboratory area.
7. Students must carefully examine all equipment before and after each use and immediately
report any broken or defective equipment to the teacher.
8. Students need to know critical information about using hazardous chemicals in the
laboratory. Your instructor will review the essential points on Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
relative to dangerous chemicals that students will work with and post the SDSs in the
laboratory.
 Lab infractions and penalties

As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and in
adherence to the ISD Science Laboratory Code of Conduct, we have categorized infractions as
Minor, Significant and Major.

 Improper use or storage of PPE  Leave the lab and correct the situatio
Minor  Improper clothing n according to the
 Abandoned glassware in the sink Laboratory Code of Conduct
 The working area was  Clean all the glassware in the sink at
not cleaned after work (there was the time of discovery
residue on the balance, forgotten  Clean work area
glassware, etc.).
 Absence of PPE  Stop the work you are doing and cor
Significance  Improper use of equipment and us rect the situation immediately.
ing equipment without teacher  Sorting of the chemicals and cleanin
instructions g of equipment as assessed by the
 Reception of two Minor warnings teacher
 Meeting with the principal.
 Improper storage of chemicals  Temporary dismissal from the lab
Major  Food in lab  Retaking of SSCC Quiz (student
 Reception of 2 Significant safety code of conduct quiz)
warnings  Meeting with the principal
 Parents are informed
 Lab Safety Contract

This needs to be signed by your parent(s) and returned by the third day of class!!! Student
Name _______________________________________________Hour_____________ You
must have this contract completed before you can engage in any lab activity.

1. I will conduct myself in an appropriate manner in the lab. I will not engage in
horseplay, shoving, hitting, squirting others with wash bottles, running, throwing any
object, or play practical jokes.
2. I will follow all written and verbal instructions. If I do not understand any instruction, I
will ask the instructor. I will not engage in any unauthorized experiments.
3. I will not eat food, chew gum, or drink beverages in the lab. I will not ingest any
chemical from the lab.
4. When I first enter the science room or lab, I will not touch any chemicals, equipment,
or materials until instructed to do so.
5. I will know the locations and operation of safety features in the science room and lab.
This includes the emergency exits, fire extinguisher, fire blanket, eye wash, first aid
kit, and goggles
6. I will not work in the laboratory alone, leave my lab station unattended, or disturb
other lab groups unnecessarily.
7. I will consult with my physician about any medical condition (i.e. – contacts, allergies,
pregnancy, or asthma) that can pose a hazard and will notify the instructor of any
restriction.
8. I will put on lab goggles upon starting the lab and wear them the entire time I am
working on the lab (including clean-up) or until the instructor indicates.
9. I will wear appropriate clothing to the lab. Loose and baggy clothes, dangling jewelry
are not allowed when conducting labs. I will wear an apron or lab coat if it is
necessary. I will tie back my hair if it is long.
10. I will wash my hands with soap and water after working in the lab. I will not touch my
face, rub my eyes, or insert/remove contacts until my hands are washed.
11. I will report any accident or injury to the instructor immediately.
12. I will not remove any chemical or material from the laboratory.
13. I will clean up my lab station to its original condition, and dispose of any waste
according to the instructor. The sink will be free from all debris.
14. I understand that I will be charged for any broken equipment or damage resulting from
my negligence.
I, ___________________________________(student) have read and agree to follow all of
these safety rules in this contract. If I fail to adhere to any of them, I may be asked to leave the
lab without opportunity for make-up and may be punished according to the student code of
conduct. I will cooperate to the fullest extent with my instructor and fellow students to create
and maintain a safe lab environment. I am aware that any any violation can lead to unsafe lab
conditions and can harm others and me.

_________________________________

(student signature) (date)

I, ___________________________________(parent/guardian) have read this document with

my child and understand the importance of a safe lab environment and accept the
consequences of failing to comply with this contract.
_____________________________________

(parent/guardian signature) (date)

 Student Safety Code of Conduct Quiz (SSCC)

1)What is the most appropriate attire when working in a laboratory?

a) T-shirt and shorts

b) Lab coat, safety goggles, and closed-toe shoes
c) Long flowing dress or skirt
d) Sandals and flip-flops

Answer: b) Lab coat, safety goggles, and closed-toe shoes

2) When should you wear gloves in the lab?

a) Only when handling dangerous chemicals

b) Only when using sharp objects
c) Always when working in the lab
d) Gloves are optional

Answer: c) Always when working in the lab

3) What should you do if you accidentally spill a chemical on yourself?

a) Wait until the end of the experiment to clean it up

b) Clean it up immediately using the appropriate procedure and notify your supervisor
c) Ignore it, as small spills are not harmful
d) Ask someone else to clean it up for you
Answer: b) Clean it up immediately using the appropriate procedure and notify your supervisor

4) Before conducting an experiment, it is essential to:

a) Read the procedure and potential hazards carefully

b) Check your phone for messages
c) Wear your lab coat inside out for good luck
d) Work without supervision
Answer: a) Read the procedure and potential hazards carefully
5) Which of the following is NOT an appropriate action in the laboratory?

a) Running to quickly finish the experiment

b) Keeping the work area clean and tidy
c) Keeping all food and drinks away from the lab area
d) Following all safety guidelines and procedures

Answer: a) Running to quickly finish the experiment

6) What should you do if you don't understand the instructions or procedures in the lab?

a) Proceed with the experiment as best as you can

b) Ask a lab mate for advice
c) Consult the instructor or lab supervisor for clarification
d) Skip that step and move on to the next one

Answer: c) Consult the instructor or lab supervisor for clarification

7) How should you handle broken glassware in the lab?

a) Carefully pick it up with your bare hands and place it in the trash
b) Use tongs or a dustpan and brush to pick up the broken pieces and dispose of them in a
designated glass disposal container
c) Kick it under the lab bench to deal with later
d) Leave it for someone else to clean up

Answer: b) Use tongs or a dustpan and brush to pick up the broken pieces and dispose of them in
a designated glass disposal container

8) Which of the following should you do if there is a fire in the lab?

a) Attempt to put it out yourself using water or the closest extinguisher

b) Immediately evacuate the lab and alert others on your way out
c) Try to move any hazardous chemicals away from the fire
d) Continue working and ignore the fire if it seems small

Answer: b) Immediately evacuate the lab and alert others on your way out
9) When should you remove your safety goggles in the lab?

a) Only when your lab partner confirms it's safe to do so

b) Whenever you feel uncomfortable wearing them
c) Only after you have left the lab
d) Never remove your safety goggles while in the lab

Answer: d) Never remove your safety goggles while in the lab

10) Which of the following is true about eating or drinking in the lab?

a) It is allowed as long as you are careful not to spill

b) It is strictly prohibited at all times
c) It is allowed during non-experimental periods
d) It is allowed in designated areas of the lab

Answer: b) It is strictly prohibited at all times

11) How should you dispose of chemicals after an experiment?

a) Pour them down the sink

b) Store them in your lab drawer for future use
c) Follow the proper waste disposal guidelines provided by your instructor
d) Leave them on the lab bench for someone else to deal with

Answer: c) Follow the proper waste disposal guidelines provided by your instructor

12) When is it acceptable to taste or smell a chemical in the lab?

a) Whenever you feel curious about the substance

b) Only if you know the chemical is non-toxic
c) Never, tasting or smelling chemicals is strictly prohibited
d) When the instructor or lab supervisor explicitly instructs you to do so

Answer: c) Never, tasting or smelling chemicals is strictly prohibited

13)Before using any lab equipment, you should:

a) Check for damage and report any issues to the lab supervisor
b) Use the equipment without any additional checks
c) Assume the previous user has already checked it
d) Use it as you see fit without regard to the user manual

Answer: a) Check for damage and report any issues to the lab supervisor
14) What is the primary purpose of a fume hood in the laboratory?

a) To store chemicals safely

b) To provide extra space for equipment storage
c) To contain and exhaust harmful vapors and fumes
d) To keep the lab temperature regulated

Answer: c) To contain and exhaust harmful vapors and fumes

15) When using a Bunsen burner, which statement is correct?

a) It's okay to leave the Bunsen burner unattended while it's lit
b) Always point the open end of the tube away from yourself and others
c) Place the Bunsen burner near flammable materials for easy access
d) It's not necessary to have a fire extinguisher nearby while using the burner

Answer: b) Always point the open end of the tube away from yourself and others

16) What should you do if you accidentally spill a chemical on your skin or clothing?

a) Wash the affected area with water for at least 30 seconds

b) Ignore it, as it is not harmful
c) Continue working and clean it up later
d) Use a cloth to wipe it off immediately

Answer: a) Wash the affected area with water for at least 30 seconds

17. Which of the following is NOT a proper way to handle electrical equipment in the lab?

a) Use equipment with damaged cords or plugs

b) Unplug equipment by pulling the cord
c) Keep electrical cords away from water and other liquids
d) Turn off equipment and unplug it when not in use

Answer: a) Use equipment with damaged cords or plugs

18. How should you carry sharp objects, such as scissors or scalpels, in the lab?

a) By holding them pointed down by your side

b) By passing them directly to your lab partner
c) By carrying them with the sharp edges exposed
d) By using a container or holder to transport them safely

Answer: d) By using a container or holder to transport them safely

19. When should you begin cleaning up your lab station after an experiment?

a) After everyone else has finished their experiment

b) As soon as you are done with your experiment
c) At the end of the lab session, regardless of your experiment's status
d) At the discretion of the lab supervisor

Answer: b) As soon as you are done with your experiment

20. What should you do if you accidentally break a mercury thermometer in the lab?

a) Use your hands to pick up the broken glass and mercury

b) Call for help and leave the area immediately
c) Pour water over the mercury to clean it up
d) Ignore the spill and continue working

Answer: b) Call for help and leave the area immediately

21. Which of the following is an appropriate action if you get a chemical in your eyes?

a) Wait for it to evaporate on its own

b) Rinse your eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention
c) Rub your eyes vigorously to get the chemical out
d) Ignore it, as most chemicals are harmless to the eyes

Answer: b) Rinse your eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical
attention

22. What should you do if you find an unlabeled chemical in the lab?

a) Use it for your experiment as long as it looks similar to what you need
b) Dispose of it in the trash immediately
c) Ask your lab mate if they know what it is
d) Report it to your lab supervisor and do not use it

Answer: d) Report it to your lab supervisor and do not use it

23. When should you remove your gloves after completing an experiment?

a) As soon as the experiment is finished, regardless of any clean-up tasks remaining

b) Wait for someone else to remove them for you
c) After washing your hands
d) Never remove your gloves until you leave the lab

Answer: a) As soon as the experiment is finished, regardless of any clean-up tasks remaining
24. Which of the following is the correct procedure for smelling a chemical in the lab?

a) Inhale deeply to get a strong sense of the odor

b) Waft the odor towards your nose using your hand
c) Stick your nose directly into the container to smell it
d) Pour a small amount on your hand and smell it directly

Answer: b) Waft the odor towards your nose using your hand

25. How should you label a test tube containing a chemical?

a) Use a sticky note with your name written on it

b) No need to label, just remember what's inside
c) Use a pencil to write the name of the chemical on the test tube
d) Use a waterproof marker to clearly label the test tube with the chemical name

Answer: d) Use a waterproof marker to clearly label the test tube with the chemical name

26. Which of the following should NOT be disposed of in regular trash?

a) Paper towels with chemical spills

b) Empty glass containers
c) Broken glassware
d) Disposable gloves used during an experiment

Answer: c) Broken glassware

27. What should you do if there is a power outage while conducting an experiment in the lab?

a) Light candles to continue working

b) Continue the experiment in the dark
c) Inform your lab supervisor and wait for further instructions
d) Start working with more intensity to finish before the power comes back

Answer: c) Inform your lab supervisor and wait for further instructions

28. What is the best way to transport a large volume of liquid in the lab?

a) Carry the container with both hands, ensuring it doesn't spill

b) Pour the liquid into a smaller container for easier transport
c) Carry it above your head to avoid spills
d) Ask someone else to carry it for you

Answer: b) Pour the liquid into a smaller container for easier transport
29. Which of the following actions should you take if you accidentally break a thermometer
containing mercury?

a) Notify your lab supervisor and follow their instructions for cleanup
b) Clean it up yourself using paper towels and dispose of them in the regular trash
c) Ignore it and continue working on your experiment
d) Pour water over the mercury to clean it up

Answer: a) Notify your lab teacher and follow their instructions for cleanup

30. How should you behave during a fire drill in the lab?

a) Ignore the alarm and continue working

b) Evacuate the lab immediately and follow the designated evacuation route
c) Stand near the exit but wait for others to evacuate first
d) Hide under the lab bench until the drill is over

Answer: b) Evacuate the lab immediately and follow the designated evacuation route