In a laboratory; the following should not be worn_ A) Loose clothing: B) Dangling jewelry C) Sandals D) All of the above
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: D) All of the above
In a laboratory setting, safety is the top priority. The correct answer is D) All of the above because each listed item poses a serious risk during laboratory work.
Loose clothing can easily catch on fire, dip into chemicals, or get caught in equipment. For instance, sleeves that hang loosely may accidentally come into contact with open flames from a Bunsen burner or absorb hazardous substances. This increases the risk of contamination and burns.
Dangling jewelry, such as long necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, can become entangled in moving parts of laboratory instruments. They may also knock over glassware containing harmful chemicals, leading to spills and breakages. Additionally, metal jewelry may react with chemicals or conduct electricity if working near live circuits, creating an electrical hazard.
Sandals or open-toed shoes leave the feet vulnerable to injury. In laboratories, chemicals may spill or glassware might fall and shatter. Closed-toe shoes provide a barrier that reduces the chance of skin contact with dangerous substances or cuts from broken glass. Sandals offer no such protection, making them inappropriate for lab work.
Laboratory safety protocols are designed to minimize all avoidable risks. Wearing proper lab attire, such as fitted clothing, safety goggles, gloves, and closed-toe shoes, is not just a recommendation but often a legal and institutional requirement. Personal protective equipment (PPE) serves as a first line of defense against laboratory accidents. Supervisors or instructors typically enforce these dress codes to maintain a controlled and safe working environment.
In conclusion, wearing loose clothing, dangling jewelry, or sandals in a lab is unsafe. The best practice is to avoid all of them, making “D) All of the above” the correct and responsible choice.