Lab Safety

A hazard is...

• The likelihood of a substance, etc. to cause harm
• The probability of a substance, etc. to cause harm
• The potential of a substance, etc. to cause harm
• The prospect of a substance, etc. to cause harm

Answer explanation

A hazard is the potential source of harm. It refers to the inherent dangerous nature of a substance, object, or activity—regardless of whether harm is likely to occur or not. This is distinct from how likely that harm is to happen.

A risk is...

• The ability of a substance, etc. to cause harm
• The likelihood of a substance, etc. to cause harm
• The potential of a substance, etc. to cause harm
• The prospect of a substance, etc. to cause harm

Answer explanation

A risk refers to the likelihood or probability that a hazard will cause harm. It takes into account both the severity of the potential harm and the chance that it will occur under certain conditions.

When providing a safe environment, employers must eliminate all risks to health and safety

• True
• False

Answer explanation

There is no such thing as a completely safe environment. Therefore, both employers and employees must actively identify hazards, assess the risks associated with work tasks, and implement preventive or control measures to minimise potential consequences. Simply assuming safety is not sufficient.

A fire assembly point is a place where...

• the fire fighting team assemble
• fire fighting equipment is store
• the fire alarms are activated
• people assemble upon evacuation

Answer explanation

A fire assembly point is a designated safe location where everyone must gather during an emergency evacuation. This allows safety personnel to account for all individuals and ensures that no one remains in danger inside the building.

The fire alarm just sounded. Do you:

• find out where the fire is
• wait until indicated that it is a real fire or false alarm
• ring the emergency number for instructions
• go home

Answer explanation

Fire alarms may sometimes be false, but every alarm must be treated as potentially real. You should prepare to evacuate promptly—this includes stopping your activity, securing your workspace if safe to do so, and gathering your essential items.

Your supervisor asks you to work on a machine you have not worked on before. Do you:

• start straight away to show you are enthusiastic & motivated
• find out how to use the machine by watching others
• start straight away—it must be safe or you wouldn't be asked
• ask your supervisor to show you how it works

Answer explanation

It is essential to seek proper instruction or supervision before using any unfamiliar equipment. Operating machinery without training increases the risk of accidents. Always clarify how the machine works before proceeding.

It is for real—the alarm sound has now changed. Do you:

• make sure people in the rooms near you have left
• find the fire warden
• go to the evacuation assembly spot
• scream fire so everyone knows and runs out of the building

Answer explanation

When an alarm changes, it usually signifies confirmation of an actual emergency. Proceed immediately to the fire assembly point. Your safety and being accounted for are the top priorities at this stage.

If you have to evacuate during an emergency, ensure that you take all your belongings with you

• True
• False

Answer explanation

Do not attempt to take all your belongings with you, as that could block exits or delay others. Only take essential items such as your phone, keys, and wallet to facilitate a swift and safe evacuation.

Work-experience students are never given work that is unsafe

• True
• False

Answer explanation

While extra caution must be taken with student workers, it is inaccurate to say they are never given hazardous work. With proper training, supervision, and risk control measures, students may engage in certain tasks that involve managed hazards. The focus is on ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place.

Risk assessment should be conducted:

• whenever work practices and/or used equipment are changed
• whenever there has been an accident
• as required—that is, when safety issues arise
• just before the warranty of dangerous equipment runs out

Answer explanation

Risk assessments must be conducted and reviewed whenever there are changes in work practices, equipment, or materials. Regular reviews and updates are essential to maintain effective safety protocols and adapt to evolving conditions.