The following rules tell you what the general treatment is for a variety of simple laboratory accidents. In all cases you MUST tell the instructor when there has been an accident. She/he will know the proper steps to take in the event the accident is more than just a minor burn, cut or spill.

These rules are also useful at home, and elsewhere, because of the many chemicals that we use routinely during the course of the day.

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First Aid in the Laboratory

Report ALL accidents, injuries, and spills to your teacher IMMEDIATELY!!!
You must know:

• Safe Laboratory techniques
  
• Where and how to report an accident, injury, or spill
  
• Location of first aid equipment, fire alarm, phone.

Situation	Safe Response
Burns	Flush with cold water
Cuts & Bruises	Treat as directed by instructions included with first aid kit
Fainting or collapse	Provide person with fresh air, have him recline in a position so that his head is lower than their body; if necessary, provide CPR
Fire	Turn off all flames and gas jets, wrap person in fire blanket; use fire extinguisher to put out fire. DO NOT use water to put out fire.
Foreign Matter in Eyes	Flush about 15 min with plenty of water, then go to the doctor
Poisoning	Note the suspected poisoning agent, contact the teacher for antidote; call poison control center if more help is needed
Severe bleeding	Apply pressure or a compress directly to the wound and get medical attention immediately
1. Spills, general 2. Acid burns 3. Base burns	1. Wash area with plenty of water, use safety shower if needed 2. Use sodium hydrogen carbonate (baking soda) 3. Use boric acid or vinegar