Final answer:
To safely smell chemicals in a lab, gently waft the vapours towards yourself with your hand in a well-ventilated area, and only do this when instructed. Always follow safety protocols like using fume hoods and pointing test tubes away from people.
Step-by-step explanation:
To smell a chemical safely in a lab, one must use their hand to gently waft (fan) the vapours towards themselves instead of directly smelling the container. This method minimizes the risk of inhaling potentially harmful vapours. It's important to only smell chemicals when absolutely necessary and when clear instructions to do so are provided. Additionally, this should be done in a well ventilated room, such as a lab equipped with fume hoods, to prevent the inhalation of fumes.
Other safety precautions include not taking chemicals from the laboratory, never leaving Bunsen burners and flames unattended, never smelling, tasting, or touching chemicals unless instructed, and pointing test tubes away from people when heating chemicals to prevent accidents.