Final answer:
To safely handle sharp tools in a laboratory, wear protective gloves, keep instruments clean and sharp, store them safely, and use them only for their intended purposes. Additionally, follow general lab safety protocols such as wearing goggles and practicing good hygiene.
Step-by-step explanation:
When handling sharp tools and instruments, several precautions should be observed to maintain safety in the laboratory. These include:
- Wearing protective gloves to avoid cuts and exposure to potentially infectious materials or harmful substances.
- Keeping tools and instruments not only clean but also sharp since dull instruments can require more force for use, increasing the risk of accidental injury.
- Storing all tools and instruments in a designated safe place to prevent accidents and ensure they are easily accessible when needed.
- Using the tools and instruments exclusively for their intended purpose to prevent damage to the tools or harm to the user and others.
It is equally important to avoid contamination and injury by wearing necessary safety gear like goggles, maintaining personal hygiene, particularly handwashing, and following protocol for preventing pathogens. In addition, a laboratory should be a no-eating zone, and regular safety measures like using dust pans for broken glass, wearing safety helmets, and ear protection for respective activities should be adhered to.