Who's Safe Now?

With the emphasis on engineering design challenges, it is important to still put one’s best safety foot forward. It is expected that teachers prepare for safe lab experiences when working w... See More

With the emphasis on engineering design challenges, it is important to still put one’s best safety foot forward. It is expected that teachers prepare for safe lab experiences when working with chemicals, but Dr. Roy reminds everyone that there are safety issues to consider with many other aspects of science teaching and learning. In this case, the concern is over the use of power hand tools by students and teachers not familiar with the potential safety hazards associated with their uses. Common sense is not enough when a teacher allows students to operate equipment that the teacher has not been properly trained to use and maintain. Dr. Roy recommends consulting the online OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) resource on hand and power tools. No matter what equipment is required for an activity, be it a Bunsen burner or a power drill, teachers need to be well informed on the potential safety hazards, proper use and maintenance, and accepted practices for teaching safe use of each item before allowing students near one.