Mercury metal should only be used in a well-ventilated area. Its vapor pressure is such that it can easily exceed maximum permissible concentration. If you are using mercury, have readily available a mercury spill clean-up kit or be ready to spread sulfur on all areas contaminated with a mercury spill. When distilling explosive mixtures, or compounds at reduced pressure, use the safety shield in the down position. Boiling mixtures of concentrated perchloric acids and traces of organic matter can lead to violent explosions.
Chlorine is especially poisonous.
Check all ethers for peroxides, as peroxides cause ethers to explode spontaneously or ignite. In order to avoid conflict on the use of an instrument, a sign-up notebook is provided for each instrument. Please sign up several days in advance for the particular instrument you wish to use. Priority for use is given to those students who have signed up first. Maintenance charges will be shared in proportion to the use made of the equipment.