This ASSIST Information Sheet (AIS) explores latex allergies: What is a latex allergy? Those at risk, signs and symptoms. Items containing latex in schools. Risk management and prevention strategies in the school setting.
Broken Max Min Thermometer: We have some max min mercury thermometers here, and yesterday one of them was broken by a cleaner. The broken thermometer gives off an overpowering odour, it was extremely strong and resulted in the evacuation of an office as we couldn’t initially identify where the smell was coming from. It smells like something is burning and the office is still very smelly today as some of the liquid spilled onto the carpet.
Calcium Carbide: My teachers are wondering whether there are any restrictions on us storing and using Calcium carbide for pracs here at school? They apparently used to do some wonderful pracs with it in the past, which they have not done for many years, however I am concerned about the safety of these pracs.
Balloons and Latex: I haven't heard of any issues but we have a parent who is concerned with regards to balloons and latex and the powder residue in them. We use balloons a lot and wondered if there is anything we can use or do?
This downloadable ASSIST Information Sheet (AIS) provides information and guidelines on the safe handling, use and storage of potting mix.
Handling cow manure in school science laboratories: Can cow manure be used for practical activities in school science laboratories? Are there any regulations regarding handling cow manure?
Animal skeleton: One of our teachers can get a sheep skeleton from someone. The sheep died in a field and the bones are now devoid of any flesh. The teacher wants to know if there is a way in which the skeleton can be cleaned/sterilised so it can be used in the classroom to show the structure of the long bones and the spine etc. I know that we are not allowed to use anything not sourced from a reputable supplier (because of possible disease, fungus and pathogens it may be carrying) but the teacher would like to know if there is something that can be done so she can use it.
Chemical Store: In my chemical store I have my hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals separate. Do we need to separate these or can they all go together ensuring there are no incompatibilities.
Use of lead in schools: Use of lead and lead salts in schools: Is lead (solid, lead shot, salts) allowed to be used in Years 7 to 10? Are lead salts banned in some jurisdictions?
On your List of Recommended Chemicals for Science in Australian Schools, you say that lead nitrate can be used in Years 7–12. They are classed as 'high risk' substances with uncertain or unpredictable risk levels in Education QLD’s guidelines. I don’t, therefore, understand why lead and lead salts are included on your list?
Hydrochloric acid and ammonia reaction: Hi, could you please advise me about a demo of HCl and NH4OH fumes mixing? Is it safe enough to put 30 ml (or less?) of each into separate petri dishes in the fume hood?
