ABSTRACT
The issue of laboratory safety, particularly that of learners, is not just a consideration when planning a lesson; it is probably the most important factor in science education, or any other subject, that overrides all others. This chapter introduces the issue of health and safety, to raise an awareness of some of the important factors. The approach to controlling the potential risks in science teaching is therefore just the same in principle as that which should be taken to control any other type of risk in schools. The chapter considers how to reduce any risks to the health of learners and teachers to an acceptably low level. The task of carrying out a risk assessment may be delegated to an employee. However, as stated earlier, the responsibility still remains with the employer to ensure that such assessments are carried out before any hazardous activity takes place or hazardous chemicals and microorganisms are used.
