Lab safety is integral to any laboratory experience. Laboratory experimentation can be a fun, hands-on way of connecting with the content, but, from chemicals to electrical equipment, many of the things that will be encountered while performing a chemistry experiment can be dangerous to oneself or others if not handled appropriately. Being prepared for a laboratory experiment and knowing what to do if an emergency arises can be the difference between a successful outcome and permanent injury. This assignment allows for students to internalize what lab safety means to them, and to examine some of the potential sources of hazard that will be faced in the laboratory.
After watching the GCU “Safety Videos for Chemistry,” write a 500- to 700-word paper on the importance of safety in a chemical laboratory. Include a description of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) that should be worn in the laboratory, the purpose of each PPE item, at least two examples of potential hazards that students could face in a chemistry laboratory setting, and a brief description on how a chemistry laboratory differs from biology or anatomy laboratory settings.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
