LABORATORY

GLASSWARE
1

INSPECT YOUR GLASSWARE

AND APPARATUS
• Look for chips, cracks, or other flaws; defective glassware should
be pulled from service.

• Do not overtighten glassware clamps as this can produce

mechanical stress. Hand-tighten only to firm, but not extreme
pressure.

• Glassware should only be used for its intended purpose.

Makeshift apparatus can be unstable and lead to accidents.

PROPER
HANDLING
• N
ever carry a flask by its neck, or a beaker by its side. Always
use two hands when carrying glassware with one hand under the
glass for support.

• G
loves should be worn whenever glassware is handled,
preferable cut-resistant gloves with lab gloves underneath to
keep out liquids.

SAFE STORAGE
• Keep glassware away from shelf edges.

• Don’t let instruments roll around in drawers (use drawer pads).

• Place glassware well back in hoods or on benches.

TAKE CARE
WHEN WASHING
• Pay special attention when hand-washing glassware as this is the most
common source of lacerations.

• Use heavy duty gloves and handle glassware delicately.

• Keep glassware clear of the sides of the sinks.

• Never use worn out cleaning brushes as they can scratch the glass.

BE CAUTIOUS WHEN HEATING

AND COOLING GLASSWARE
• Heat or rapid temperature change (including cooling) should
only be applied to borosilicate glassware that is designed for
such applications.

• Boil liquids in round bottom flasks where possible.

• Never set hot glass on a cold bench.

• B
eware of potentially hot glass. Develop standard operating
procedures and follow routines to allow glassware to cool. Keep
appropriate gloves hanging near autoclaves and other apparatus
where glassware is frequently heated.

HANDLE GLASS
TUBING CAREFULLY
• E
nsure you are wearing gloves and safety glasses before cutting
or bending tubing.

• W
hen cutting tubing, score the tube with a single stroke, grip
the tube with your fingers on either side of the score mark, and
pull the ends of the tube toward you.

• W
hen bending, heat the tube in flame until the glass turns red
and pull the ends towards you to form the desired angle.

• When inserting tubing into a stopper, use a lubricant such as

laboratory grease.

EQUIPMENT UNDER PRESSURE OR

VACUUM REQUIRES SPECIAL CARE
• Use round vessels. These will withstand more pressure or
vacuum than flat-sided glassware.

• Pressurized or vacuum pump systems should be set-up in the

fume hood with the sash down, or behind a shield when on the
bench.

• Design systems with pressure release devices to reduce chances

of breakage.

ENSURE PROPER
DISPOSAL
• Make sure chemical and biological hazards are removed prior
to disposal.

• Use a puncture resistant “sharps” container and do not overfill.

• Affix proper labels securely close before placing in trash or

recycle receptacle.

© 2018 Lab Manager