RationaleThe laboratory environment is a hazardous place to work. For the prevention of injury and illness, it is important to adhere to laboratory safety policies and procedures. Objectives • Demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations• Identify the location of first aid supplies• Describe proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for laboratory work• Interpret the information on a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)• Understand and demonstrate emergency procedures in the laboratoryEngageA laboratory technician opens the refrigerator door, and an unlabeled bottle falls from the door and breaks on the floor. The volatile chemical immediately fills the room with noxious fumes; the building is evacuated; no one ID’s the bottle. Key Points Laboratory safety is an important aspect of any lab-based science class. Caution should always be maintained to protect the students and the instructor. The microbiology laboratory contains potential pathogenic microorganisms and toxic chemicals. Standard precautions are practiced throughout each laboratory investigation. A. Safety rules and symbols are important so that students do not injure themselves or their classmates. B. Most lab students do not think the rules are important until something does happen and they have to take action.