Laboratory Fire Safety Measures
1. Laboratories should be housed in buildings with fire resistance ratings of Class I or II. Labs with flammable or explosive vapors and gases must use electrical equipment that meets explosion-proof standards.
2. Laboratories with an area over 30 m² should have one or two emergency exits.
3. Small quantities of flammable hazardous chemicals (up to 5 kg) remaining from experiments or regularly used in the lab should be stored in metal cabinets and managed by a designated person. Quantities exceeding 5 kg should not be stored in the lab.
4. Electric heating devices without insulated and heat-resistant bases are prohibited.
5. Rooms exposed to direct sunlight must be equipped with curtains, and items prone to heat evaporation should not be placed in sunlit areas.
6. For unknown or unidentified materials, conduct small-scale tests first with minimal amounts. Implement safety precautions and prepare for fire and explosion hazards.
7. When using combustible gases as fuel, ensure that installation and use comply with fire safety requirements.
8. All chemicals stored in containers must be immediately labeled. If anomalies or doubts arise, inspect, verify, or consult the custodian. Toxic substances should be stored centrally or managed by a designated person.
9. Only chemicals directly needed for experiments should be on the lab bench, especially avoiding containers of concentrated acids, flammables, or explosives.
10. When transferring large quantities of flammable or combustible liquids (excluding alcohols, acids, etc.), use anti-static precautions.
11. Gas cylinders should be kept away from fire sources, stored outside in cool, well-ventilated areas, and piped into the lab. Hydrogen, oxygen, and acetylene should be stored separately.
12. Temporary electrical wiring for experiments should meet safety standards. Devices like electric heaters and ovens must be unplugged when unattended. Do not store incompatible items or low-flash-point flammable liquids in refrigerators.
13. Establish and enforce safety protocols for chemical operations such as distillation, reflux, extraction, and electrolysis, along with chemical storage and usage rules. Educate students on strict adherence to these protocols.
14. Maintain fire readiness by equipping the lab with portable fire extinguishers.
