FUME HOODS (SORBONNE)
Operation of fume hoods
Switching on the extractor fan
Positioning of the sash window
The correct positioning of the sash window is essential to ensure the hood provides adequate extraction
The window sash is too high.
Extraction is insufficient and disrupted. Dangerous for operators.
The window sash is correctly positioned.
Extraction is effective, ensuring safe handling.
LAB BENCHES
Organizing the workspace
The work area on the lab bench must be kept clean and unobstructed to avoid the risk of an accident.
The workspace is cluttered.
There is a high risk of spilling a solvent.
The workspace is clear with unused solvents at the back.
Chemicals can be handled safely.
Organizing the glassware
Always write down which solution is contained in which piece of glassware, as well as the concentrations, to avoid odd mixes
The three translucent liquids opposite could not be told apart if information was not written on the glassware.
There is no risk here of mistakenly mixing nitric acid (HNO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which would cause a strong exothermic reaction.
THE ROOM
Cluttering of the room
To avoid incidents, aisles in tutorial rooms must not be cluttered with bags
The bag in the aisle can be dangerous as it represents an obstacle for someone carrying solutions (acids, bases, solvents)
The bag has been set aside under the bench and no longer stands in the way of anyone working
Signs
A laboratory is not a living room. It is forbidden to:
- Eat and drink (risk of contamination)
- Smoke (risk of explosion)
- Run (risk of accident)
On the other hand, in a laboratory you must :
- Wear a lab coat even when you are not handling chemicals yourself (when others are)
- Respect everyone’s workspace (a space for conducting experiments, a space for writing)
