Parents and teachers assume responsibility
for the safety of the student and any test subjects involved in the project.
Students should complete the safety form and attach it to the inside cover of their log book. Students should also provide detailed descriptions on how they followed the safety guidelines in their log book.
(Note: New for 2010, this form replaces the safety authorization number)
Guidelines:
No animal (this includes invertebrates) should be harmed or caused pain.
All safety procedures need to be recorded in your log book.
A signed safety form must be included on the inside cover of your logbook.
Safety gloves should be used for any testing with food or chemicals.
EYE PROTECTION: Safety glasses should be used for any experiments with chemicals or if any kind of splash may come in contact with your eyes
ALLERGIES: Remember human subjects may be allergic to different substances. Always ask about allergies.
FIRE: Projects are not allowed that involve fire or burning objects.
HUMANS: No experiments should be done on humans that can cause any potential harm to the human. Exceptions include observational type studies such as food tasting, observing, thinking type exercises, etc. Bottom line…it is ok as long as there is no possible way that any person can be harmed.
BACTERIA: Due to the potential for inhaling or coming in contact with harmful bacteria, students should avoid projects where they collect bacteria and then grow bacteria cultures. While this can be done safely, the potential exists for a very harmful pathogen to be inhaled or come in contact with the student.
OTHER: No experiments should be done using firearms. Experiments cannot include prescription drugs, illegal drugs or alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I….
Q. Explore the effect on mold on bread?
A. Use gloves and a mask…some may be allergic so be careful.
Q. Use household chemicals in my experiment?
A. You may use household chemicals as long as all safety procedures on the chemical packaging are followed. Adult supervision should be given.
Q. Have people eat or drink (taste test) different food or beverage?
A. Yes, but you should ask about all allergies. A permission form from each student’s parents should be made and signed before any taste testing is done. These permission forms should be included in the final project.
Q. Have animals eat or drink different kinds of dog food in various amounts?
A. Yes, but animals should not be harmed in any way.
Q. Is it ok to have people hit a ball with a bat for various tests?
A. Yes, however, you need a signed permission slip from the parent and constant supervision by an adult. To prevent injury, the area must be clear from other humans. Participants need to wear a helmet.
Q. What special precautions should I use if my experiment includes use of a stove or oven?
A. A parent or teacher needs to be present to supervise. Oven mitts should be used to handle a hot pan or tray. Make sure small children are not near the oven.
Here is a suggestion on how a safe project concerning toothpaste might be designed and included in logbook as safety precautions:
A permission slip needs to be signed by an adult. New toothbrushes need to be used for each person. Only apply toothpaste to new toothbrushes. Wear gloves. No toothbrush can be reused.
If you have a question concerning safety, please feel free to contact:
Peggy James Nacke, Academy of Science at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it