Helping Students Understand Lab Safety
A Teacher’s Guide
The laboratory is an exciting place for students. It’s where science feels real—where they can discover, experiment, and learn by doing. But as you know, labs can also be risky if students don’t follow safety procedures. That’s why teaching lab safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about building a mindset of caution and respect for the environment they’re working in.
Whether you’re teaching middle or high school students, it’s important to cover four main areas: general conduct, protective gear, chemical safety, and emergency procedures. Here’s how you can explain each of these in a way students will understand—and remember.
Building Good Lab Habits
Lab safety starts with simple behaviors. One of the most important habits to teach is never to eat or drink in the lab. Even if students think their hands are clean, small traces of chemicals can transfer from surfaces to food or drinks. Accidents can happen fast, and something as harmless as a snack could turn dangerous if contamination occurs.
Keeping the workspace clean is another must. A cluttered lab bench isn’t just messy—it’s risky. When tools and supplies are scattered everywhere, spills and breakages are more likely. Encourage students to stay organized and only keep what they need at their station.
It’s also essential to follow instructions exactly as given. Students should know that if they’re ever unsure about a step, asking for help is the right thing to do—not guessing or experimenting on their own.
Finally, remind them to stay focused. A lab isn’t the place for jokes or distractions. When students get too comfortable or playful, mistakes happen. A brief moment of distraction can cause spills, injuries, or ruined experiments.
Dressing for Safety
Protective gear is like armor in the lab. It’s the first line of defense against spills, splashes, or accidents. Students need to understand why each piece of gear matters, not just that it’s required.
A lab coat protects skin and clothing from chemicals and heat. It should be worn properly—buttoned up and fitted well.
Gloves are important too, but not all gloves are the same. Students should use the right type of glove for the task, and always check for rips or tears before putting them on.
When it comes to protecting eyes, goggles or safety glasses are non-negotiable. Remind students that they may not notice tiny droplets or particles flying through the air, but their eyes are always at risk during experiments. For certain activities, like handling really reactive materials, a face shield may be needed in addition to goggles.
Closed-toe shoes are another must. Sandals and flip-flops leave feet exposed, and that’s a problem if glass breaks or chemicals spill. Sturdy shoes help prevent injuries.
Handling Chemicals Safely
Even everyday chemicals can be harmful if not handled correctly. That’s why students should always read labels carefully and know exactly what they’re working with. Labels tell them the name of the chemical, its concentration, and what hazards it might have.
All containers in the lab should be clearly labeled. Using an unlabeled bottle is like playing a guessing game with safety—and that’s never okay. Students should be taught to report unlabeled containers to you immediately.
Proper storage is just as important. Certain chemicals react if stored too close together. For example, acids and bases shouldn’t share the same shelf, and flammable materials belong in fireproof cabinets.
It’s also important to teach students never to handle chemicals directly with their hands. Tools like pipettes, tongs, and spatulas are there for a reason—to prevent skin contact, which can cause burns or other injuries, even from small splashes.
Knowing What to Do in an Emergency
Even with the best precautions, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s crucial for students to know how to respond when something goes wrong.
If a chemical splashes into someone’s eyes, they need to get to the eyewash station immediately. The eyes should be rinsed with clean water for at least 15 minutes, and medical attention should follow.
For fires, students should know where the fire extinguisher is located and how it works. A simple acronym can help: PASS—Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
It’s also a good idea to point out the first aid kit and explain what’s inside. Minor burns, cuts, or scrapes can often be handled on-site before further treatment.
Make sure students know where the emergency exits are and how to evacuate safely. Practice drills if possible so they’re prepared, not panicked, if a real emergency happens.
Finally, encourage students to report any incident right away, no matter how small it seems. A little spill can become a big problem if no one speaks up.
Creating a Culture of Safety
When you teach lab safety, you’re doing more than giving students a list of rules. You’re shaping how they think about responsibility, teamwork, and respect for their environment. Students need to know that lab safety is everyone’s job, not just the teacher’s.
By helping students practice safe conduct, wear the right gear, handle chemicals properly, and prepare for emergencies, you’re giving them lifelong skills—not just for the classroom, but for any lab they may work in later.