Provide safety information at the beginning of the semester and then go over specific safety issues as they arise. Most states apply OSHA rules to the public school classroom. A mishandled animal may be injured or inflict injury. Teach students to treat animals with respect and care and use gloves when picking them up. Follow guidelines published by the National Science Teachers Association.
Many plants can be toxic when touched or eaten.
Teach students to identify plants before they touch them, and always wash their hands afterward. Inventory existing chemicals and remove those that pose hazards. Purchase chemicals only in quantities that you can use within the school year. Teach students that chemicals can be caustic, explosive, flammable, and can react with others to form toxic gases. Students must take precautions such as wearing safety glasses and aprons when working with chemicals.