All laboratories, even modern high-tech ones, have some degree of hazard potential. It is the teacher's responsibility to make the lab as safe as possible and to do all that is reasonable and prudent to prevent accidents. The teacher's goal should be to insure the safety of every student. This goal is met best via well-planned instruction and…

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS], n.d.) has shown that workers involved in accidents have little, if any, instruction on the equipment they were using while injured. Keep in mind that instruction on the safe operation of a piece of equipment may take place early in the school year,…

Hearing loss resulting from excessive noise levels remains a concern in technology education laboratories. Teachers must take responsibility to provide a safer, less noisy environment. (SK)

Discusses the legal requirements for laboratories that create hazardous wastes. Alternatives for waste disposal, including using a licensed disposal company or recycling, are proposed. (CH)

The author discusses Environmental Protection Agency regulations concerning ventilation of industrial plants and school industrial laboratories. Various alternatives are presented. (CH)

The author introduces a simple three-step formula for teaching safety awareness in technology education classes and in industry. The steps are (1) understand the hazard, (2) recognize the defense, and (3) act in time. (CH)

Discusses various types of visual impairments and how the learning environment can be adapted to limit their effect. Presents suggestions for adapting industrial arts laboratory activities to maintain safety standards while allowing the visually impaired to participate. (CH)