Module: A Short Laboratory Safety Refresher

Instructions (10 min)

• This module includes three sections.
• The module is at best if you do it with your colleague or friend.
• Start by familiarizing learning objectives below.
• Then explore themes via interactive slides. Note that some the slides include links to CheSSE content pages that can help you with the exercises. You can find the links on the first pages of the slides.
• After familiarizing the material, you can test you knowledge by answering the small exercises embedded in the slides.

Learning objectives

1. Can work safely in a laboratory

• Can found out the risk factors involved in the work to be done
• Can protect themselves against the risk factors
• Knows how to follow safe working methods
• Knows how to act in laboratory accidents

2. Can handle and sort chemical waste correct

• Note that this competence module offers only a general part for the orientation!
• In addition, you must always get familiar with our own student laboratory.

1. Before the laboratory (30 min)

Before you step into the laboratory, you must fully complete your safety preparation to ensure a secure working environment. For example,

• Get to know the experimental work processes and chemical safety data sheets (SDS) beforehand.
• Dress appropriately by wearing closed-toe shoes, tying back long hair, and avoiding loose clothing or dangling jewelry.
• Complete any required pre-lab safety quizzes or modules assigned for the session.
• Know the locations of the nearest emergency exits, eye wash stations, and first aid kits.

Here are three interactive slide sets for you to refresh your memory.

2. In the laboratory (10 min)

Before you start working,  try to identify risks so that you avoid them during experiment work. Always use laboratory coat, goggles and gloves if instructed.

3. Storage and waste management (20 min)

The final step of the module is a review of chemical storage and disposal.