Identifying Laboratory Safety Symbols

Master science lab safety symbols! Identify signs, understand meanings, and avoid hazards.

Identify each of the following laboratory safety symbols. Then provide a description of what each symbol represents, as well as the potential hazards associated with each one. Description: Must be worn to protect the eyes while performing any task that involves chemicals, flames, heating, or glassware. Symbol: Safety Goggles Associated Hazards: chemicals, flames, or glassware entering the eyes. Symbol: Gloves Description: When working with harmful chemicals or microorganisms, these must be worn at all times. Dispose of used ones properly. Associated Hazards: Chemicals damaging the skin, microorganisms entering open wounds on the hands and causing disease. Symbol: Flames Description: Follow your instructor's directions when working with. Tie back loose hair and clothing before working with. Associated Hazards: Loose hair or clothing catching on fire. Symbol: Animal Safety Description: Avoid harming any animals or yourself when working in the lab. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. Associated Hazards: Accidental harm to animals, diseases passing from animals to humans. Symbol: Scissors Description: Sharps must be handled with care to avoid puncturing or cutting the skin. Always direct the sharp point of the object away from yourself and others. Associated Hazards: Puncturing or cutting the skin, transmitting disease. Symbol: Lab Coat Description: Must be worn to protect the skin and clothing from harm. Associated Hazards: Chemicals harming the skin or clothes. Symbol: Heat Description: Do not touch hot objects with your bare hands; instead use a clamp or tongs. Associated Hazards: Burns. Symbol: Corrosive Chemical Description: Avoid contact with the skin, eyes, or clothing and do not inhale the vapors. Wash your hands thoroughly after working with corrosive chemicals. Associated Hazards: Harm to the skin, eyes, or clothing; harm from chemical inhalation. Symbol: Poison Description: Avoid contact with and do not inhale vapors. Wash hands thoroughly after working with. Associated Hazards: Poisoning, possible death. Symbol: Biohazard Description: Materials that are harmful and pose a threat to your health must be handled with care. Avoid contact with including used needles, toxins, infectious substances, and other medical waste. Associated Hazards: Needlesticks, disease transmission, contamination.