What to do if a laboratory fire erupts: lab fire safety quiz
This quiz helps you practice what to do if a laboratory fire erupts and make quick, safe choices in the first minutes. Use it to spot gaps, handle flammables wisely, and know when to evacuate or suppress a small flame. For broader practice, try the chemistry lab safety quiz, review the fire extinguisher safety quiz, or take a laboratory safety test.
Study Outcomes
- Apply Fire Emergency Procedures -
Describe the immediate steps to take if a laboratory fire erupts immediately, including alarm activation, evacuation routes, and use of fire extinguishers.
- Demonstrate Safe Handling of Flammable Materials -
Show correct practices for storing, transferring, and disposing of flammables like alcohol to minimize fire and spill risks.
- Explain Responsible Burner Operation -
Clarify why you should never leave a lit burner unattended and how to monitor heat sources throughout an experiment.
- Maintain Proper Personal Protective Equipment -
Recognize the necessity of wearing laboratory aprons during all lab activities and selecting proper eye protection to guard against splashes and sparks.
- Outline Procedures for Incomplete Experiments -
Detail the steps to follow if a lab experiment is not completed you should, including safe shutdown, labeling, and cleanup processes.
- Secure Long Hair in the Laboratory -
Identify hazards posed by loose hair and demonstrate how long hair in the laboratory must be tied back to prevent contact with flames and chemicals.
Cheat Sheet
- PASS Fire Extinguisher Technique -
If a laboratory fire erupts immediately, use the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) endorsed by NFPA for effective extinguisher use. This clear framework helps you respond calmly and efficiently to contain small fires. A handy mnemonic - "Pull and Aim, then Squeeze out Flame" - locks in each step under stress.
- Safe Burner Practices -
Never leave a lit burner unattended; OSHA studies highlight that unattended Bunsen burners are a leading cause of lab fires. Always stay within arm's reach and adjust the flame to a gentle blue cone to minimize flare-ups. Label a "Done?" zone on your bench so you remember to turn off heat sources before stepping away.
- Mandatory PPE: Aprons and Eye Protection -
Laboratory aprons should be worn during all lab activities to shield skin and clothing from chemical splashes and heat. Pair aprons with ANSI-approved goggles or face shields - CDC lab safety guides note that eye injuries drop by 90% with consistent eye protection. Store PPE in a dedicated clean zone to encourage regular use.
- Securing Hair and Loose Clothing -
Long hair in the laboratory must be tied back to prevent it from igniting or dipping into chemicals; NIH protocols emphasize secure buns or low ponytails. Use a simple mnemonic like "HAIR - Hold Away In Restricted zones" to recall the rule every time you enter the bench area. Tuck in loose sleeves, and avoid scarves or lanyards near open flames.
- Proper Shutdown for Incomplete Experiments -
If a lab experiment is not completed you should follow shutdown protocols: turn off electrical and gas sources, lock up reagents, and label your workspace with hazard details. According to ACS guidelines, this prevents accidental reactions overnight and ensures colleagues can safely restart. Keep a log of completed steps and pending actions for quick handoff.