LABORATORY PROCEDURES FOR BIOLOGY

Safety is the number one consideration in the lab. This list of guidelines is to insure everyone's safety in lab.

Notify your instructor immediately if you are pregnant, color-blind, allergic to insect bites, taking immunosuppressive drugs, or have any other medical condition that may require special precautionary measures in the lab.

Upon entering the lab, place all books, coats, purses, backpacks, etc, in designated areas, not on the bench tops.

Notice the location of safety equipment- fire extinguisher, eyewash, first aid kit, and broken glass container.

Never eat, drink, smoke, chew gum, chew tobacco, etc. in the lab. Dispose of all beverages and food before entering the lab. Due to the Michigan Clean Indoor Air Act, smoking is not permitted anywhere in the Science building. 

Wear shoes at all times in the lab.

Cover any cuts or scrapes with a sterile, waterproof bandage before attending lab.

Do not perform unauthorized experiments.

Do not use equipment without instruction.

Cultures, chemicals, plants or other materials may not be taken from the lab at any time without the specific permission of the instructor.

Report all spills and accidents to your instructor immediately.

Wash skin immediately and thoroughly if contaminated by chemicals or microorganisms.

When using hotplates, note that there is no visible sign that they are hot (e.g., a red glow). Always assume that the hotplates are hot.

Use appropriate apparatus when handling hot glassware.

Do not allow any liquid to come into contact with electrical cords. Handle electrical connectors with dry hands. Do not attempt to disconnect electrical equipment that crackles, snaps or smokes.

Upon completion of lab exercises, place all materials in the disposal area indicated by your instructor.

Do not pick up broken glassware with your hand. Use a broom and dustpan and discard the glass in a designated waste container. Never discard glass waste with paper waste.

Leave the lab clean and organized for the next student.

Wash your hands with soap prior to leaving the lab.