This downloadable document gives the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and detailed method for the handling, storage and transportation of compressed gas cylinders in school science areas.
The accompanying example risk assessment should be used as a guide only, and users should consider risks and safety measures in their local environment before proceeding.
Demonstration of phosphorus: Are teachers still allowed to demonstrate the properties of white phosphorus? If so, where do we get some? Clearly we would need only a tiny amount.
is it desirable or necessary to store Phosphorus in a sand bath? (Yes, I know it goes under water first!)
Lightning in a test tube: I have a teacher who is planning on performing the 'lightning in a test tube' demonstration in the school lecture theatre. The experiment involves layering ethanol on top of sulfuric acid in a test tube and then dropping some potassium permanganate crystals into the sulfuric acid. I would prefer it to be performed in a fume cupboard.
Portable Bunsen burners: In August 2013, a Qld Dept Education Health and Safety Consultant advised us that the Australian Gas Association (AGA) and Qld Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate have decided that the puncture-type C206 disposable gas canisters that fuel clip-on Bunsen burner attachments are not suitable for use in schools indoors or outdoors.
I cannot find any documentation from any of these organisations that detail this decision. Could you advise that portable Bunsens should not be used?
Phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) paper used in genetics: Are we still allowed to purchase them and do the experiment? We are looking at ordering some PTC papers and an SDS does not appear to be supplied with the papers.
Use of a spirometer: One of our teachers would like to use a spirometer in class. The spirometer requires the user to breath in rather than blow air out. Are we allowed to do this, if we have disposable mouthpieces?
Laboratory doors security: Is it a requirement that science room doors be locked when not attended by staff?
Mercury II Thiocyanate: Hi all. Does anyone know if we can use this in high schools? it is used to make Pharoah's serpent?
potassium bromate: I am wondering if it is safe/acceptable to order potassium bromate in solid form for a visually impressive science reaction for open day purposes. Are there any special considerations associated with this chemical, as I believe it can be quite hazardous? The teacher hopes to use the whole amount of potassium bromate ordered within a few days of ordering, so it would not be stored indefinitely in our chem room.
Esters – preparation, properties and disposal
This is a combination of several questions
