CHAPTER 1: SAFETY MEASURES IN THE LABORATORY

What is the personal protective equipment in the laboratory used for conducting experiments that involve volatile substances?

• Laminar flow cabinet

• Safety shower

• Eye wash station

• Fume chamber

Answer explanation

The fume chamber is designed to safely handle volatile substances by ventilating harmful vapors away from the user, making it essential for experiments involving such materials. Other options do not provide this specific protection.

Figure 1 shows biological waste after conducting an experiment.

• Wrapped in absorbent material, securely packed in a biohazard plastic bag, and frozen before disposal

• Placed in a special container and stored in a safe place before disposal.

• Decontaminated by autoclaving and disposed of directly into the sewage system

• Wrapped and placed in a biohazard plastic bag

Answer explanation

The correct choice emphasizes proper handling of biological waste by wrapping it in absorbent material, securing it in a biohazard bag, and freezing it, ensuring safety before disposal.

Among the following types of fire extinguishers, which one is suitable for extinguishing all types of fires?

• Water

• Foam

• Carbon dioxide

• Dry powder

Answer explanation

Dry powder extinguishers are versatile and can be used on all types of fires, including those involving solids, liquids, and gases. In contrast, other extinguishers are limited to specific fire types.

Figure 3 shows the steps to extinguish a fire. Which of the following shows the correct sequence of steps using a fire extinguisher?

• W, X, Y

• W, Y, X

• X, Y, W

• X, W, Y

Answer explanation

The correct sequence to use a fire extinguisher is X (pull the pin), Y (aim at the base of the fire), and W (squeeze the handle). Therefore, the right answer is X, Y, W.

The statement below describes the function of a piece of equipment in the laboratory.

Used to conduct experiments that use volatile substances

What is the name of this equipment?

• Laminar flow cabinet

• Safety shower

• Eye wash station

• Fume chamber

Answer explanation

The fume chamber is specifically designed to safely conduct experiments with volatile substances by containing harmful vapors and providing ventilation, making it the correct choice for this function.

Figure 4 shows the materials needed in the management of biological waste. Among the following matches of biological waste, which should be included in the materials above before disposal?

• Sharp instruments and non-sharp solids

• Non-sharp solids and carcasses

• Carcasses and blood

• Sharp instruments and blood

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'Non-sharp solids and carcasses' because these materials require specific handling and disposal methods to prevent contamination and ensure safety in biological waste management.

Which of the following is a recommended method for disposing of chemical waste in a laboratory setting?

• Using designated chemical waste containers

• Evaporating in a fume hood

• Mixing with regular trash

• Pouring down the sink

Answer explanation

Using designated chemical waste containers is crucial for safe disposal of chemical waste, preventing contamination and ensuring compliance with regulations. Other methods like pouring down the sink or mixing with trash are unsafe.

In the event of a chemical spill, what is the first action you should take?

• Evacuate the area

• Notify your teacher

• Clean it up immediately

• Contain the spill

Answer explanation

In the event of a chemical spill, the first action should be to notify your teacher. They are trained to handle such situations and can take the appropriate steps to ensure safety and manage the spill effectively.

What type of fire extinguisher is specifically designed for electrical fires?

• Dry powder

• Carbon dioxide

• Foam

• Water

Answer explanation

The correct choice is carbon dioxide, as it is specifically designed for electrical fires. It does not conduct electricity and effectively displaces oxygen, helping to extinguish the fire without causing damage to electrical equipment.

What is the primary purpose of a fume hood in a laboratory setting?

• To cool down heated substances

• To provide a sterile environment

• To protect users from inhaling hazardous fumes

• To store chemicals safely