Science is a fun, engaging and interactive subject.  Many topics allow for investigation in a lab setting.  However, any science activity or lab may have potential safety issues if not conducted properly.  Safety in the science classroom and lab is an important part of the science curriculum therefore we spend a unit learning about and confirming knowledge of laboratory safety at the beginning of the year.  In addition, whenever a science activity or lab is performed additional safety instructions will be given.  

Please discuss the condensed safety rules listed below with your child and make sure to sign and return the Flinn Scientific Safety Contract that they bring home.  No student will be allowed to participate in science activities or labs until the student and a parent have acknowledged their understanding of the safety rules and the student has passed the safety quiz.

• Conduct yourself in a responsible manner at all times in the science classroom and lab.
• Follow instructions carefully and ask questions if you do not understand the instructions.
• Use equipment only as instructed by the teacher.
• Perform only approved experiments.
• Never eat, drink, chew gum or taste anything in the science lab.
• Keep hands away from face, eyes and mouth while using science materials.  Wash your hands with soap and water after the activity or lab.
• Wear safety goggles when instructed.  Never remove safety goggles during an experiment.  There are no exceptions to this rule!
• Clean all work areas and equipment and dispose properly of any waste materials.
• Report any accident (spill, breakage, etc.) injury or broken equipment to the teacher immediately.
• If you have allergies or wear contact lenses please make sure this is noted on the safety contract so this can be taken into consideration during labs and activities.

Please note that ALL students must have safety goggles that are splash and impact resistant.  These goggles should fit over any daily eyewear the student wears.  Below is an example of appropriate goggles, these can be found at many local hardware stores or on amazon.