Examples of precautions to Improve Safety whilst doing an experiment (by topic):

Mechanics

Risk 1: Use of heavy weights

Risk 2: Injury to hands and feet below suspended weights

• • Ensure the apparatus is arranged in a stable manner away from edge of table to prevent toppling over.
  • Ensure the apparatus is positioned without obstruction to walkways, to prevent accidental collisions.

Electricity

Risk: Fraying of connecting wires, electric shock

• • The initial resistance of rheostats should be set to the maximum for each resistance setup to prevent an initial large current from damaging circuit components.
  • Equipment, switches and electrical wires must not be handled with wet hands to prevent electric shock. (If using mains electricity, not a danger if just using batteries).

Thermal Physics

Risk: Bunsen burner, a source of ignition and fire

• • Place it on a stable surface and away from any obstruction to prevent it from toppling over.
  • Goggles should be worn when students are conducting heating experiments to protect from accidental spurting of hot liquids.

 

 

Basics