Safety

 

In all of the practical investigations described at the Bioscience Explained Web site, we have tried to ensure that recognised hazards have been identified and that suitable precautions have been suggested. Where possible, the proposed procedures are in accordance with commonly-adopted general risk assessments. If a special risk assessment may be necessary, this has been indicated.

However, readers should be aware that errors and omissions can be made, and that different employers and educational authorities adopt different standards. Therefore, before carrying out any activity, readers should always conduct their own risk assessment. In particular, any local rules issued by employers or educational authorities must be obeyed, whatever is suggested in the activities available from this site. Unless the context dictates otherwise, it is assumed that:

    

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practical work is carried out in a properly equipped and maintained science laboratory;

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any mains-operated equipment is properly maintained;

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care is taken with normal laboratory operations such as heating substances;

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good laboratory practice is observed when chemicals or living organisms are used;

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eye protection is worn whenever there is any recognised risk to the eyes;

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pupils and / or students are taught safe techniques for activities such as handling chemicals and microorganisms.
 

If you have any urgent comments to make about safety, please contact the Editor:

 

Dr Elisabeth Strömberg
Department of Zoology
Göteborg University
Box 463
SE 405 30 GÖTEBORG
Sweden
 
T : + 46 31 773 3625
F : + 46 31 773 3807
E : elisabeth.stromberg@zool.gu.se