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Essay / The importance of laboratory safety and security
Proper training and knowledge are required. Some of the basic rules to follow when working in chemistry laboratories are given below: • Have good knowledge to identify and manage potential chemical hazards associated with an experiment before starting work. Refer to the MSDS for any chemical before working with it. • Use laboratory safety equipment such as fume hoods and other local ventilation systems to avoid exposure to airborne chemicals. Wear gloves and other personal safety clothing to avoid skin contact with all laboratory chemicals to minimize exposure to them. • Place chemical or solvent bottles in appropriate cabinets and do not leave them on the floor to avoid unnecessary spillage. Use plastic or laminated glass bottles to store 4 L solvents or acids. • Use caution when transporting solvent and acid bottles. Use rubber backings.• Flammable materials cabinets should be used for flammable chemicals to prevent fires.• Clearly label all wash bottles, base baths, solvent bottles and chemicals with all important details, including opening date. Label research samples with chemical names and/or chemical structures and/or relevant laboratory notebook number and page.