Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

We see various natural phenomena in our daily lives. Natural phenomena are

things that happen in nature. Lightning, a rainbow, the melting of ice, the

growth of a baby into an adult, and the fall of a ball to the ground are a few

examples of natural phenomena. We want to know why and how all these

things happen. We search for answers, and the study of science gives us the

answers.

The word science is derived from the Latin word “scientia” which means

Knowledge. Science is defined as a body of knowledge and processes by

which knowledge is produced. It is a study of the physical and natural world.

Science provides a systematic way of learning about the nature of things

based on observation and evidence. Through science, we explore our

environment, gather knowledge and develop ideas that help us interpret and

explain what we see.

When some people think of science, they think of formulas and facts to
memorize. Commonly, they are used to see the "body of knowledge"

component of science. These are sometimes presented with scientific

concepts in statement form – Earth is round, electrons are negatively

charged, our genetic code is contained in our DNA, and the universe is 13.7

billion years old. Usually, with a little background about the process that led

to that knowledge, we trust it.

The scientific process is a way of building knowledge and making

predictions about the world in such a way that they are testable. For

example, the question of whether the Earth is flat or round could be tested;

it could be studied through multiple lines of research, and the evidence

could be evaluated to determine whether it supports a round or flat planet.

These are processes. Among the processes of science, observation,

1.1.1 What is science

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

We see various natural phenomena in our daily lives. Natural phenomena are
things that happen in nature. Lightning, a rainbow, the melting of ice, the

growth of a baby into an adult, and the fall of a ball to the ground are a few

examples of natural phenomena. We want to know why and how all these

things happen. We search for answers, and the study of science gives us the

answers.

The word science is derived from the Latin word “scientia” which means

Knowledge. Science is defined as a body of knowledge and processes by

which knowledge is produced. It is a study of the physical and natural world.

Science provides a systematic way of learning about the nature of things

based on observation and evidence. Through science, we explore our

environment, gather knowledge and develop ideas that help us interpret and

explain what we see.

When some people think of science, they think of formulas and facts to

memorize. Commonly, they are used to see the "body of knowledge"

component of science. These are sometimes presented with scientific

concepts in statement form – Earth is round, electrons are negatively

charged, our genetic code is contained in our DNA, and the universe is 13.7

billion years old. Usually, with a little background about the process that led

to that knowledge, we trust it.

The scientific process is a way of building knowledge and making

predictions about the world in such a way that they are testable. For

example, the question of whether the Earth is flat or round could be tested;

it could be studied through multiple lines of research, and the evidence

could be evaluated to determine whether it supports a round or flat planet.

These are processes. Among the processes of science, observation,

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

measurement, prediction, estimation, and communication are the major

ones.

Science studies the natural world. This study includes the components of the

physical universe around us like atoms, plants, ecosystems, people, societies,

and galaxies, as well as the natural forces at work on them. It investigates all
sorts of questions: for example:-

 What causes gravity?

 Why do leaves fall from trees after turning yellow?

 How do our brains store memories?

 How do water molecules interact with each other?

 How are diseases caused and how to prevent and cure them?

Then scientists make observations, conduct experiments, and give answers

to these questions. In addition to a body of knowledge that includes

formulas and facts, science is a practice by which we pursue answers to

questions that can be approached scientifically. This practice is referred to

as scientific research.

Conventional Science and Indigenous Science

As it has been said, the primary goal of science is to understand the natural

and human-designed worlds. It is used by humans for obtaining knowledge

about nature. Science is a dynamic and creative activity with a long and

interesting history. Many societies have contributed to the development of

scientific knowledge and understanding.

1.1.2. Branches of Science

Group discussion

1. Tell your classmate, the traditional herbal medicines in your

locality that really cure people?

2. Tell farmers knowledge of planting trees, coffee seedlings,

farming, weeding and harvesting crops.

3.

Activity 1.

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

Therefore, it is possible to divide science into two categories:

conventional science and indigenous science.

The term “Indigenous” can be defined as decent people who inhabited the

geographical region to which they belong. Therefore, indigenous science is a

local, community-based system of knowledge that is unique to a given

culture or society. It is a general term that refers broadly to the collective

knowledge of Indigenous people about relationships between people, habitat,

and nature.

It includes practices and technologies used both in the past and present by

indigenous peoples for their survival in a variety of environments. Some

knowledge may be common to all members of a community, and as such

may be easier to share with outsiders. Certain specialized pieces of

knowledge are held only by some members of the community. Indigenous

scientists specialize in herbal medicines, traditional village health and

spiritual counseling, and measuring weather cycles.

Terms such as “modern science,” “Western science,” and “conventional

science” have been in use only since the beginning of the twentieth century.

Modern science, also called conventional science, is taught in school

classrooms.

3. Farmers in your area may fatten cattle. How they fatten the cattle

explain to your friends.

4. Then discuss with your classmates, from where this indigenous

knowledge comes?

5. Is this a science? How? Explain.

6Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

Conventional science relies on certain laws that have been established

through the application of scientific methods. The process of the scientific

method begins with an observation, followed by a prediction or hypothesis,

which is then tested. Depending on the test results, the hypothesis can

become a scientific theory about the world.

Scientists distinguish between conventional and indigenous science by

claiming that conventional science is universal, whereas indigenous science

focuses only on particular people and their understanding of the world.

The other difference between them is that conventional science focuses on

the component parts, whereas indigenous science presents information about

the world in a holistic way.

In indigenous science knowledge is transferred by storytelling and has no

documentation. Unlike this, in conventional science, knowledge transfer is

by a written document. Also, in indigenous science, learning occurs through

doing and experiencing, while it occurs through formal education in

conventional science.

Science is mainly divided into four main branches. They are Natural

science, Social Science, Formal Science and Applied science. Each of

these branches has sub-branches according to the nature of the subject.

I. What is Natural science?

Natural Science is a branch of science concerned with the description, and

understanding of natural phenomena. It includes three main subject areas;

physics, biology and chemistry.

Physics - study of matter,motion, force, and energy. It can describe how

the system is placed on the space, the motion of the system, and other

physical properties. Mainly, it has two branches, which are also divided

1.1.2 Branches of Scienc

Science is mainly divided into four main branches. They are Natural

science, Social Science, Formal Science and Applied science. Each of

these branches has sub-branches according to the nature of the subject.

I. What is Natural science?

Natural Science is a branch of science concerned with the description, and

understanding of natural phenomena. It includes three main subject areas;

physics, biology and chemistry.

Physics - study of matter,motion, force, and energy. It can describe how

the system is placed on the space, the motion of the system, and other

physical properties. Mainly, it has two branches, which are also divided

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

into subdivisions. These are classical physics (Mechanics, Sound, Optics,

Electromagnetism, Heat and thermodynamics) and Modern physics

(Atomic, Nuclear, Quantum physics, and space exploration).

Table 1.1. Branches of physics

Branches Main Focus (Studies about)

Mechanics Force acting on object whether at rest or in motion

Thermodynamics The relationship between heat and other forms of

energy

Electromagnetism Electricity and magnetism and their mutual

relationship

Quantum physics Discrete nature of phenomenon at atomic and sub

atomic level.

Atomic physics The structure and property of atom.

Nuclear physics the structure, property and reaction of the nuclei

of atom

Biology - All living things are studied under biology. In biology, there

are three main branches; i.e. Zoology, Botany and Microbiology.

Table 1.2. Branches of biology

Branches Main Focus (deals with)

Zoology The study of animals

Botany The study of plants

Microbiology. The study of microorganisms

Chemistry - Chemistry is the study of matter, analyzing its structure,

properties and change in chemical reactions. There are several branches;

the major are Organic chemistry, Inorganic chemistry, Analytic chemistry,

Biochemistry and Physical chemistry

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

Table 1.3. Branches of chemistry

Branches Main Focus (deals with)

Organic The study of carbon containing compounds.

Inorganic The study of compound that do not contain carbon

Analytical Analyzing the composition of materials.

Physical Concerned with the behavior of materials.

Biochemistry Study of the chemistry of living organisms.

II. What is Formal Science?

Formal science is a branch of science studying disciplines concerned with

formal systems, such as logic, mathematics, statistics, and theoretical

computer science.

III. What is social Science?

Social Science is the study of human behavior in its social and cultural

aspects. Some of the branches of social science are law, History,

Economics, Sociology, Education, and Political science.

IV. What is applied science?

Applied science studies about theories of a subject applying to humans’

applications. All of the industrial applications come from applied sciences

studies. Besides this, all science subjects have an applied science area, for

example, applied physics, applied mathematics, applied biology, etc. It

includes a broad range of disciplines Such as computer, civil, chemical,

electrical engineering, and industrial engineering.

Different branches of science have relationship with one another. For

instance, the concept that matter is made up of different atoms is a subject of

1.1.3 Relationships of Different Branches of Scienc

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

physics. The structure of atom is also included in physics. But the formation

of molecule and its cause is subject of chemistry. Therefore, physics and

chemistry are associated with each other on these subjects of study.

There is great relationship between chemistry and biology as well. In biology

functioning of different organ and their structure is described. Besides this,

the chemical nature of different living bodies and chemical reactions taking

place in them are studied in chemistry, which is called biochemistry.

Mathematical assistance is applied for physics and chemistry. Many laws of

chemistry and physics are derived from mathematics.

Some of the branches of science studied by more than one branch of science

are mentioned below.

Biophysics – biology studied with the help of principles of physics.

Biochemistry- biology studied with the help of chemistry.

Geophysics - different aspect and features of land are analyzed with the

help of physics.

The words science and technology can be, and often are used

interchangeably. But the goal of science is the pursuit of knowledge while

the goal of technology is to create products that solve problems and improve

human life. Simply put, technology is the practical application of science.

Science ensures a longer and healthier life, monitors our health, cures

diseases, and relieves aches and pains. It helps us to provide water for our

Individual work

Go to the library and look for other branches of science created by

overlapping areas of science.

Activity 1.2

1.1.4 The role of Science and Technology in our lif

The words science and technology can be, and often are used

interchangeably. But the goal of science is the pursuit of knowledge while

the goal of technology is to create products that solve problems and improve
human life. Simply put, technology is the practical application of science.

Science ensures a longer and healthier life, monitors our health, cures

diseases, and relieves aches and pains. It helps us to provide water for ou

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

10

basic needs. It also benefits in providing our food, energy and making life

more fun, including sports, music, entertainment and the latest

communication technology.

Science has built up our understanding of electricity and the relationship

between electricity and magnetism. The generation and supply of

electricity enable the carrying of our voices over telephone lines, bringing

entertainment to our televisions, and keeping the lights on. Generally, it is

used to run industrial and home appliances.

From the eradication of smallpox to the prevention of nutritional

deficiencies, to successful treatments for once deadly infections, the use of

life-saving drug and diagnostic instruments has been increased greatly. In

fact, without science, many people alive today would have instead died of

diseases that are now easily treated.

In the agriculture sector, the production of high-yielding variety, the

invention of pesticides and fertilizers, and farm machines is the result of

science and technology. This has great role in realizing food security.

In the industrial sector, the use of automatic electrical and mechanical

machines in communication introduction of supersonic planes and

electrical trains are the result of advancements in the field of science and

technology.

Various discoveries and inventions in the present century have brought a

revolution in communication sector. Wireless, telephone, radio, television,

computer, satellites have interlinked the whole world. Science and

technology has made man travel to space

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

11

Advantages and disadvantages of science

Advantages of science

1. Industrialization

Science has brought a great revolution in terms of economic progress due to

industrialization. Industrialization has changed us from toes to hair of head.

We have variety of things available at shopping malls and industrial outlets.

2. Surplus food

Science has accelerated production of cereals, fruits, meat and vegetables.

Modern man enjoys a variety of edibles.

3. Fast travelling and communication

Aero-planes, Air conditioned buses, ships and bullet trains have shortened

the geographical distances. Modern man travels through oceans, air,

mountains landscapes at a greater speed. Now the world is at the distance of

click. Internet, Television, Radio and fax have enabled us to enjoy

communication with global community just like our family members.

4. Innovation

Science has brought innovation in every field of life. Distance learning,

connected classroom technology and online courses have changed the

concept of education. Now education has become a global concern. Modern

tools are also being used to investigate diseases once were a challenge in the

health department. Technology is being shifted from garage to pocket due to

innovative research done in scientific field.

5. Problem solving technique

Scientific progress has changed our thought process. Modern man applies

scientific approach to daily life problems. It has given us computational

control over the world.

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

12

Disadvantages of science

1. Unemployment

Solving a problem generates a new problem as a by-product.

Industrialization has replaced human beings with machines. It has

accelerated economic progress by many folds, but at the same time,

unemployment is increasing due to machines.

2. Pollution

Pollution is the by-product of scientific progress and industrialization.

Greenhouse effect has caused global warming which is a threat-call to our

future. The world is consuming billions of dollars every year to neutralize or

reverse this issue, but the problem is still going out of control. Pollution is

the by-product of scientific progress and industrialization.

3. Human total destruction

Scientific progress has made the world more divided and less stable as

compared to the past. Modern man has invented atomic bombs, hydrogen

bombs, Nuclear Bombs and missile technology for the destruction of human

beings. These weapons are increasing feelings of insecurity across the globe.

4. Uncertain future

The world is becoming prone to 3rd world war as more and more flash points

are emerging on the map of the globe.

We have attempted to understand and explain the world around us since the
first humans appeared on the planet. The most curious among us often

become scientists. They have shaped human knowledge and laid the

groundwork for almost every scientific discipline. Here are some

contributions from international and Ethiopian scientists.

1.1.5 Famous Scientists of the World and Ethiopi

attempted to understand and explain the world around us since the

first humans appeared on the planet. The most curious among us often

become scientists. They have shaped human knowledge and laid the

groundwork for almost every scientific discipline. Here are some

contributions from international and Ethiopian scientists.

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

13

International scientists with their contributions

1. Abu Ali Ibn Sina

Abu Ali Ibn Sina better recognized to the West as Avicenna. He alone wrote

246 books. His creative influences involved such developments such as

acknowledgment of the communicable nature of

phthisis and tuberculosis; spreading of diseases by

water and soil and the collaboration between

psychology and health. Ibn Sina was also the first to

describe meningitis and prepared ironic

contributions to anatomy, gynecology and child

health.

2. Marie Curie

Physicist and chemist Marie Curie was famous for

her work on radioactivity. She was the first

scientist to isolate polonium and radium; she

established the nature of radiation and beta rays.

Her work led to the development of the X-ray and

research into atomic particles.

3. Stephen William Hawking

Physicist Stephen William Hawking developed a

theory of exploding black holes that drew upon

both relativity theory and quantum mechanics.

He also worked with space-time singularities

Fig. 1.1 Abu Ali ibn Sina

Fig. 1.2 Marie Curie

Fig. 1.3 Stephen William

Hawkinysicist Stephen William Hawking developed a

theory of exploding black holes that drew upon

both relativity theory and quantum mechanics.

He also worked with space-time singularitie

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

14

Ethiopian scientists with their contributions

1. Zeki Abdullahi sherif

He is a professor at Georgetown University,

Washington, D.C. teaching and researching in

the area of molecular medicine and cancer in the

department of biochemistry and molecular

biology at the school of medicine. He was able

to isolate a novel gene named ZS (acronym

for zeki sherif) that may predispose certain

individuals and groups to cancer. He has been recognized for his scientific

work with national and international awards including the Hall of fame

award and international union of cancer researchers.

2. Gebissa Ejeta

During the early 1980s, Ejeta developed Africa's first

commercial hybrid variety of sorghum tolerant to

drought. Later, with a Purdue University colleague in

Indiana, he discovered the chemical basis of the

relationship between the deadly parasitic weed striga

and sorghum, and was able to produce sorghum

varieties resistant to both drought and striga. Ejeta

was awarded the 2009 World Food Prize, considered

the Nobel Prize for food and agriculture, for research that “enhanced food

security for hundreds of millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa.” Ejeta has

advised numerous international and U.S. government agencies, including the

United States Agency for International Development. In 2011 President

Obama appointed him to the Board for International Food and Agricultural

Development.

Fig. 1.4 Zeki Abdullahi sherif

Fig. 1.5 Gebissa Ejeta

Gebissa Ejetg the early 1980s, Ejeta developed Africa's first

commercial hybrid variety of sorghum tolerant to

drought. Later, with a Purdue University colleague in

Indiana, he discovered the chemical basis of the

relationship between the deadly parasitic weed striga

and sorghum, and was able to produce sorghum

varieties resistant to both drought and striga. Ejeta

was awarded the 2009 World Food Prize, considered

the Nobel Prize for food and agriculture, for research that “enhanced food

security for hundreds of millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa.” Ejeta has

advised numerous international and U.S. government agencies, including the

United States Agency for International Development. In 2011 President

Obama appointed him to the Board for International Food and Agricultural

Development

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

15

Fig. 1.6 Sossina Haile

3. Sossina Haile

She is a chemist, known for developing the

first solid acid fuel cells. Most recently, She

has received recognition for developing new

ways of using solar energy to make fuels like

hydrogen and methane. She is a professor of

Materials Science and Engineering at

Northwestern University, Illinois, USA. She

received the National Science Foundation

National Young Investigator Award, and in 2001 She earned the J.B. Wagner

Award of the High Temperature Materials Division High-Temperature

chemical Society, the 2000 Coble Award from the American Ceramic

Society, and the 1997 TMS Robert Lansing Hardy Award.

Ethics refer to moral principles that govern a person’s behavior. Ethics in

science are the principles that scientists must follow while conducting

their research. It creates a strong foundation for trustworthy and undeniable

findings that can be accepted all over the world by the scientific

community. Ethics in science is important in promoting the aim of science

such as building knowledge, truth, and avoidance of error. For example,

Group work

1. Research the contributions of Ethiopian scientists in science and

technology that have already been mentioned or others you have

discovered, then write a report about your work and present it to the rest

of the class.

Activity 1.3

1.1.6 Scientists and Ethical Disciplin

Ethics refer to moral principles that govern a person’s behavior. Ethics in

science are the principles that scientists must follow while conducting

their research. It creates a strong foundation for trustworthy and undeniable

findings that can be accepted all over the world by the scientific

community. Ethics in science is important in promoting the aim of science

such as building knowledge, truth, and avoidance of error. For example,

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

16

prohibitions against fabricating, falsifying, or misrepresenting data used in

science practices.

In scientific investigation, there are standards of conduct scientists

should follow. These ethical disciplines are the following:

1. Scientific data should be reported honestly. It is wrong and misleading

to make up or change research results.

2. Scientific results should be carefully recorded and analyzed to avoid

errors. Avoid biased results.

3. Scientists must inform coworkers and members of the community about

any risks of their research. They should do the research only if they have

the agreement of these groups.

4. Sufficient proof of results through replication and collaboration with

peers;

5. Scientists studying living animals must treat them humanely. They

should provide for their needs and take pains to avoid harming them.

6. Scientific results should be communicated through publication. The

public should be informed so it can make better decisions, the argument

states.

7. In the scientific investigation it is necessary to acknowledge sources of

information and data.

I. Choose the correct answer for the following questions.

1. What is science?

a. Body of knowledge only c. Question

b. Body of knowledge and process d. Spiritual

2. Indigenous science differ from conventional science in that it:

a. Has hypothesis to test c. is holistic

b. Is Universal d. all

Laboratory apparatus are the tools required to complete laboratory work

including beakers, test tubes, pipettes, graduated cylinders etc.

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

18

Beakers are useful as a reaction container, to hold liquid and solid samples.

Graduated cylinders come in a variety of sizes and are used primarily to

measure accurate volumes of chemicals or solutions.

Pipets come in a variety of volumes and are used to accurately measure and
transfer volumes of chemicals or solutions. Pipets are typically used to

measure smaller volumes than graduated cylinders.

Beakers

Measuring Cylinder

PipetPipets come in a variety of volumes and are used to accurately measure and

transfer volumes of chemicals or solutions. Pipets are typically used to

measure smaller volumes than graduated cylinders

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

19

Burets are available laboratory in

a variety of volumes and are used

to accurately deliver volumes of

solutions. Burets are similar to

pipets, but the difference is that

burets have a valve at the bottom

of the cylinder that can be used to

add very small and precise volumes of a solution.

Many different types of flasks are used in science laboratory.

Erlenmeyer flasks are commonly used for storing and mixing liquids.

They are made in a number of volumes and are typically used to store or mix

chemicals or to conduct chemical reactions.

Another type of flask is a volumetric flask, which is made to contain a very

precise amount of chemicals. Volumetric flasks are usually used to prepare

standard solutions.

Burett

FlasMany different types of flasks are used in science laboratory.

Erlenmeyer flasks are commonly used for storing and mixing liquids.

They are made in a number of volumes and are typically used to store or mix

chemicals or to conduct chemical reactions.

Another type of flask is a volumetric flask, which is made to contain a very

precise amount of chemicals. Volumetric flasks are usually used to prepare
Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

20

Balance is used to find the mass of an object. The most common types of

scale balances are the beam balance (figure 1.13) and the electronic balance

(figure 1.14). Both types of balances measure mass in grams.

A Bunsen burner uses gas to produce a

flame. The flame of a Bunsen burner can

reach temperatures up to 1500°C. Bunsen

burners are used to heat liquids and solid

objects.

Test tube holders are used for holding test tubes.

Tongs are similar in function to forceps but are useful for larger items.

Equipment for Measuring

Mas

standard solutionsUnit 1: Basic concepts of science

21
Test tube is glassware that made in many sizes; it is used to hold

chemicals, to carry out sample chemical reactions in it.

Test tube rack Used to hold test tubes while reactions happen in them or

while they are not needed.

Brushes Used to easily clean test tubes, cylinders and other glassware.

Evaporating dish: Used to recover dissolved solids after evaporation.

Petri dish: used to culture different types of cells, including bacteria

and other microorganisms.

Thermometer: A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature.

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

22

Improvisation is the process of producing or preparing teaching and

learning materials from readily available and locally cheap and used
materials.

Laboratory safety rules are principles or regulations governing actions,

procedures, intended to reduce risks in the laboratory.

Basic Safety Rules

Basic safety rules for laboratory conduct should be observed whenever

working in a laboratory. Many of the most common safety rules are listed

below.

1. No student may work in the laboratory without the teacher’s supervision.

2. Carry out only the experiments assigned by the teachers.

3. Eating, drinking, and chewing gum are not allowed in the laboratory.

4. Keep your work area neat and clean.

5. Tie back loose hair.

6. Do not taste or smell chemicals.

7. Never add water to concentrated acid solutions. Because the heat

generated may cause splashing.

Making laboratory equipment /tools/ from locally available

laboratory materials

Group work

1. Prepare laboratory equipment/tools /such as beaker, measuring cylinder,

funnel, test tube rack, tongs, etc. from locallyavailable materials and show

for your teacher and classmate.

Activity 1.4

Laboratory safety rules andprocedureUnit 1: Basic concepts of science

22

Improvisation is the process of producing or preparing teaching and

learning materials from readily available and locally cheap and used

materials.

Laboratory safety rules are principles or regulations governing actions,

procedures, intended to reduce risks in the laboratory.

Basic Safety Rules

Basic safety rules for laboratory conduct should be observed whenever

working in a laboratory. Many of the most common safety rules are listed
below.

1. No student may work in the laboratory without the teacher’s supervision.

2. Carry out only the experiments assigned by the teachers.

3. Eating, drinking, and chewing gum are not allowed in the laboratory.

4. Keep your work area neat and clean.

5. Tie back loose hair.

6. Do not taste or smell chemicals.

7. Never add water to concentrated acid solutions. Because the heat

generated may cause splashing.

Making laboratory equipment /tools/ from locally available

laboratory materials

Group work

1. Prepare laboratory equipment/tools /such as beaker, measuring cylinder,

funnel, test tube rack, tongs, etc. from locallyavailable materials and show

for your teacher and classmate.

Activity 1.4
Laboratory safety rules andprocedureUnit 1: Basic concepts of science

23

8. Be careful not to touch your eyes or other body areas without

thoroughly washing your hands first.

9. Report all accidents or injuries (burn, cut, chemical splash, electrical shock

etc…)

10. Before leaving the laboratory, see that:

a. Your desktop and work area is thoroughly clean.

b. All equipment in drawer is complete and well organized.

c. Unplug electrical sockets, and switch off the light.

d. You wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

Personal protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes safety glasses, goggles,

face shields, gloves, laboratory coats, ear plugs, and respirators. Personal

protective equipment is carefully selected to ensure that it is compatible with

the chemicals and the process used.

Chemical goggles

Shield the eyes against liquid or chemical splash,

irritating mists, vapors, and fumes.

Safety glasses or chemical goggles must be put on

before entering laboratory.

Laboratory Coats

 Shall be worn before handling chemicals,

and biological specimen.

 Shall cover the wearer to the knees.

Eye glass

Laboratory coaboratory Coats

 Shall be worn before handling chemicals,

and biological specimen.

 Shall cover the wearer to the kneesUnit 1: Basic concepts of science

24

Face Protection
 Face shields worn over safety glasses may be required for certain

processes.

Hand Protection

 Gloves, especially, should be chosen carefully. They must be resistant

to the chemicals being used.

Hazard Symbols

A hazard is something that could cause: harm to someone, damage to

something or adverse health effects.

Hazard symbols are used on containers. They are used to:

 Indicate the dangers associated with the substance inside a container.

 Give information about how to work safely with the substance in the

laboratory.

mask
Hand Protection

 Gloves, especially, should be chosen carefully. They must be resistant

to the chemicals being used.

Hazard Symbols

A hazard is something that could cause: harm to someone, damage to

something or adverse health effects.

Hazard symbols are used on containers. They are used to:

 Indicate the dangers associated with the substance inside a container.

 Give information about how to work safely with the substance in the

laboratory.

Hand protection (gloves

Unit 1: Basic concepts of science

25

 Hazard symbols are designed to provide a warning, even if a person

cannot understand the writing that goes with them.

Hazard Signs (Symbols)