Fire Protocols

Chemistry laboratories routinely use flammable liquids, and at other times a heat source - sometimes both - so fire is a genuine hazard.

From the options below, select the appropriate actions in case of fire:

Fire Extinguishers

Most of the fire extinguishers located throughout the laboratory are carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, since often, water should not be used on a fire in a chemistry laboratory.

From the options below, select the types of fires where water should not be used.

Assembly Area

Where is the evacuation assembly area for the First Year Laboratories?

Emergency Protocols

In the case of an emergency, we may be evacuated from the laboratory. In the case of an evacuation, the following protocols must be observed:

• Upon hearing the warning siren (a beeping sound), we must prepare to evacuate. This means make the laboratory safe (e.g. switch off hotplates, replace caps on reagents) and prepare to leave the laboratory (e.g. remove gloves, retrieve phones).
• When we hear the evacuation siren (a whooping sound), head towards the nearest emergency exit, and gather at the evacuation assembly area (at 14 Rainforest Walk, in front of the Faculty of Science Student Lounge).
• We must remain at the assembly area until the All Clear is given to return to the laboratory.

Referring to the emergency evacuation plan in your laboratory manual, in which direction/s are the emergency exit/s for the First Year Laboratories?

Safety Signs

Locate and identify the following safety signs as you go on your virtual tour of the First Year laboratory.