Reviewed by Mary Walker
Project Director
Chemical Safety for Teachers and Their Supervisors is a slim paperback that every lab science teacher must read. It’s deceptively small; each sentence contains important information for the novice or experienced classroom teacher, department chair, or science supervisor.
This book could be read in an hour-—but shouldn't be. The density of concepts and importance of the information demands much more attention and study. The first chapter gives definitions of basic terms that appear in MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) and on chemical labels. This information isn’t watered down, so teachers need to take the time to understand it. The next section explains the four classifications for chemical hazards: flammability, corrosivity, toxicity, and reactivity. Emphasis is placed on eye protection and the designations used to describe ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards. The thorough index will quickly direct readers to specific information.
Although this book should be in every science teacher’s professional development collection, it shouldn’t stand alone, of course. Novice teachers or those with little laboratory experience should have sound professional development sessions to fully explain and demonstrate the safe handling of chemicals. In fact, the actual methods for safe handling are only mentioned in this book, not explained or described in any detail. For this reason, this text should be used in conjunction with hands-on sessions.
The authors recommend that students be included in the process of determining the risks and benefits of working with hazardous chemicals. Students (and teachers) are coached in the importance of reporting accidents and incidents and defining the hazards of certain experiments or procedures. The authors also recommend a periodic review of storage facilities and safety procedures by the local fire department. Developing good communication and resources for the school will ensure that the information in this text becomes part of classroom, laboratory, and storeroom practice. Similarly, the philosophy on safety and accident prevention outlined in the book could serve as a rich set of discussion points for students (or teachers in a professional development session) before beginning work in the laboratory.
Chemical Safety for Teachers and Their Supervisors is recommended reading for everyone who teaches science in a laboratory classroom. When used as part of an appropriately designed professional development session, it will ensure that all leave with an appreciation for and knowledge of safe handling of chemicals. As more and more emphasis is placed on hands-on, minds-engaged science lessons and inquiry labs, it is of paramount importance that every teacher receive the appropriate professional development to implement safe practices in their classrooms.
Review posted on 8/1/2001
|