In addition, links to sites where you can download MSDSs for laboratory chemicals are provided. A partial list of such references dealing with Safety and hazardous properties of materials is given Literature References . Finding Information in the Library . One of these, Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories , is especially recommended as a readable comprehensive book on the subject. Notwithstanding the department's strong commitment to safe undergraduate laboratories, it is important to bear in mind that an absolutely risk-free teaching environment is neither possible nor desirable.
Hazards abound in daily life.
Anyone considering a career in the experimental sciences or in medicine needs to learn how to handle a great variety of potentially dangerous substances with informed caution and competence. One of the objectives of the undergraduate laboratory subjects is to provide that kind of education for safe behavior and practices in the laboratory and in the outside world. Safety Practices for Chemistry Department Laboratories is a specific supplement to the University safety manual. In particular, it details the emergency evacuation procedures and directions on where to go for medical aid on campus. This manual provides further specific information about personal protective devices and equipment that are important for safe operation of laboratory experimentation and research, and more detailed information concerning proper handling of hazardous material including waste disposal procedures.