Glassware is one of the most commonly used kinds of equipment in science laboratories. Follow all lab safety rules when using and handling glassware to avoid accidents and injury.
Inspection– All glassware should be inspected for cracks and contamination before use. Cracked items should be disposed of, and contaminated glassware should be cleaned.
When inserting glass tubing into rubber stoppers follow this steps:
- Make sure the glass tubing ends are finely polished
- Always use glycerin or soapy water as lubricant
- Protect your hands by wrapping the glass tubing with a towel
- Hold the glass near the end to be inserted to avoid any twisting
Heating and Cooling Glassware
Heat or rapid temperature changes (including cooling) should be applied only to borosilicate (e.g., “Pyrex”) glassware that is designed for such applications. Never heat heavy glassware such as graduate cylinders, suction flasks or reagent bottles since they can shatter
Stoppering Glassware
Glassware should be vented when heating to avoid over-pressurization and possible explosion. Keep stoppers loose when autoclaving or during procedures that require heating.
Disposal
Broken and other waste glass should be discarded in a container specially marked to indicate its contents so that housekeeping and other personnel will exercise due caution when handling it.