Chemical spills It is not uncommon for chemicals to get spilled in the laboratory environment. In the case of water, this may be simply mopped up, but acidic and basic solutions, or other mixtures may require more care. What should you do if an unknown solution is spilled on the floor?

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Question restatement: In the event of an unknown chemical spill on the lab floor, what steps should you take to respond safely?

Option analysis:
- b. Immediately notify your TA.
  This choice emphasizes informing a designated supervisor or instructor who can coordinate the appropriate response, assess the hazard, and arrange cleanup or further actions. In many lab settings, TAs or instructors are responsible for safety oversight and know the correct spill procedures, containment methods, and if evacuation or shielding is required. Notifying the TA helps ensure the spill is handled by someone with the authority and knowledge to manage potential risks.
- c. Immediately notify those around you.
  This option highlights the importance of warning nearby people to prevent exposure to unknown chemicals. Alerting colleagues in the vicinity reduces the chance of someone walking into the spill, slipping, or being exposed to fumes or splashes before the spill is contained or cleaned up. Clear communication in the moment is crucial for safety.

Why these two choices are appropriate:
- Both options address immediate risk mitigation: preventing further exposure (by warning others) and enabling proper management (by informing the supervisor). In unknown spills, there is a high level of uncertainty about toxicity, reactivity, or required cleanup methods, so quickly involving a responsible authority and other potentially affected persons is prudent.

Why other potential options (not listed) might be considered but are not provided here:
- If there were an option to attempt cleanup yourself without training, that would be risky and generally discouraged for unknown spills, as inappropriate methods can spread contamination or create hazards.
- If there were an option to ignore the spill or to delay reporting, that would be unsafe and could lead to greater exposure and damage.

Practical takeaway: In an unknown spill, promptly alert the supervisor (TA) and warn nearby people to minimize exposure, then follow established spill-response procedures as directed by the lab safety protocol. Since the options given are b and c, both contribute to a safe and appropriate initial response by ensuring supervision and immediate hazard awareness.

CHM1051 MUM S1 2025 First year laboratory induction and safety quiz

Chemical spills It is not uncommon for chemicals to get spilled in the laboratory environment. In the case of water, this may be simply mopped up, but acidic and basic solutions, or other mixtures may require more care. What should you do if an unknown solution is spilled on the floor?

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