0.0 SAFETY

0.1 OBJECTIVE

To keep SAFETY as the highest priority in the Laboratory environment

0.2 DISCUSSION

CONTACT WITH ELECTRIC CURRENT CAN CAUSE DEATH. As little as 100 milliamperes (0.1 Amp) of electric current can kill. It is important to always understand where, when and how contact with electricity can occur. It is also important to assume that an accident can and will happen. Be prepared to use safety equipment and emergency response procedures to minimize the impact of an accident. When in doubt about anything, ASK!

0.3 PROCEDURE

1) Follow Instructions – The procedures in the Laboratory Manual are safe, if followed correctly. If any doubt exists about a procedure, ask the Instructor.

2) Know where Safety Equipment is Located – Fire extinguishers, fire blankets, eye wash stations and emergency telephone locations should be checked PRIOR to performing any experiment. Know where they are and be prepared to use them.

3) Always Assume an Electric Circuit is Hot (Energized) and Dangerous and Act Accordingly – It is often the “safe” or de-energized circuit that is responsible for accidental death. Do not let it happen.

4) Keep Work Areas Clean and Uncluttered – Disorganization leads to mistakes and mistakes lead to accidents. Remember, accidents with electricity can be fatal.

5) Double Check Circuit Wiring before Energizing – Eliminate mistakes before they become accidents.

6) Never Work Alone – Having more than one person involved will lead to better understanding of procedure, more reliable wiring and fewer mistakes. Also, a back-up person can initiate emergency response procedures in the case of an accident.

7) Wire with One Hand – The greatest risk of electric shock occurs when more than one portion of the body contacts an electric circuit. Get into the practice of using only one hand to complete circuit wiring.

0.4 CONCLUSION

Always understand the Laboratory Procedures before touching anything. Always assume that electric circuits are potentially live and dangerous. Make sure there are adequate life saving resources available and know how to use them.