What should you do first if you drop or break glassware in the lab?

When dealing with broken glassware in the lab, the first step should be to get thick gloves or a dustpan. This is critical for safety because broken glass can pose a significant risk of cuts or puncture wounds. Thick gloves provide protection for your hands while you handle the shattered pieces, ensuring that you do not injure yourself in the process of cleaning up.

Once you have the appropriate protective gear, you can proceed to collect the broken glass safely. A dustpan is particularly useful for gathering small shards of glass without directly touching them, further minimizing the risk of injury. This precaution helps create a safer environment in the lab before any further actions take place, such as notifying an instructor or managing the area’s cleanliness.

Ensuring that you approach the situation with the right protection and tools is essential to handling the incident safely and effectively.