The York School Science Safety Contract – Middle School 2022 - 2023 Science is all about doing practical investigations. This work often involves the use of specialized equipment and chemicals that require particular care and treatment. Our main priority in The York School Science Department is to ensure that students know how to conduct themselves during laboratory practical work to ensure their own safety as well as that of others in the lab. The following guidelines are given to help students develop an understanding of safe laboratory practices. All students are required to follow these guidelines at all times before, during and after laboratory practical work or they will be denied access to future laboratory activities. Teachers will instruct students about these practices, and they will review specific aspects before each lab practical.
GENERAL GUIDELINES 1. Conduct yourself in a responsible manner at all times in the laboratory. 2. Follow all written and verbal instructions carefully. If you do not understand a direction or part of a procedure, ASK YOUR TEACHER BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH THE ACTIVITY. 3. Never work alone in the laboratory. No student may work in the science classroom without the presence of the teacher. 4. When first entering a science room, do not touch any equipment, chemicals, or other materials in the laboratory area until you are instructed to do so. 5. Perform only those experiments authorized by your teacher. Carefully follow all instructions, both written and oral. Unauthorized experiments are not allowed. 6. Do not eat food, drink beverages, or chew gum in the laboratory. Do not use laboratory glassware as containers for food or beverages. Middle School students will be conducting the majority of their scientific investigations in their homerooms. During a scientific investigation your classroom will be considered a science lab. Make sure to thoroughly disinfect your desk before and after the lab. 7. Be prepared for your work in the laboratory. Read all procedures thoroughly before entering the laboratory. Never fool around in the laboratory. Horseplay, practical jokes, and pranks are dangerous and prohibited. 8. Always work in a well-ventilated area. 9. Observe good housekeeping practices. Work areas should be kept clean and tidy at all times. No backpacks, books or other items should be on the floor around the workstation. Make sure all areas are clean before you finish class. 10. If the lab requires: Lab partners must keep personal protective equipment (PPE), such as goggles and nitrile gloves, on throughout the lab. Students who need to leave the room during the lab (to use the washroom, etc.) should remove and dispose of their gloves before leaving, and put on a new pair of gloves when they return.