Integrating chemical management into a comprehensive emergency operations plan (EOP), including through the creation of a Toxic Materials Annex and a Hazardous Materials Annex, helps improve a school district's or individual school's preparedness for a chemical-related incident. To ensure the annexes remain relevant and useful, districts and…

Written in response to the frequent budget overruns experienced by higher education facilities when renovating and expanding laboratories, provides an overview of possible problems and presents a series of procedures and checklists to manage activities associated with such a move or renovation. (EV)

A primary goal of the American Chemical Society Task Force on Laboratory Waste Management is to provide laboratories with the information necessary to develop effective strategies and training programs for managing laboratory wastes. This book is intended to present a fresh look at waste management from the laboratory perspective, considering both…

This document presents laboratory safety rules for Arkansas K-12 schools which were developed by the Arkansas Science Teachers Association (ASTA) and the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE). Contents include: (1) "Laboratory Safety Guide for Arkansas K-12 Schools"; (2) "Safety Considerations"; (3) "Safety Standards for Science Laboratories";…

This document includes the strategies being used by the state of Maryland to reach five goals and six essential outcomes regarding science education for their students. Also included is a discussion of seven recommendations made by committee members and reviewers of this effort to improve the quality and use of science laboratories in Maryland.…

This paper discusses the risk assessment associated with microbiology instruction based on grade level, general control measures, appropriate activities for middle school and high school students, the preparation and sterilization of equipment, and safe handling techniques. Appended are instructions and figures on making wire loops and the…

Describes various hazards associated with electricity and electrical usage that can result in fire, explosion, burn, and shock. Presents diverse techniques and methods that one can utilize to protect laboratory personnel from common, yet dangerous, electrical hazards. (Author/JJK)

Reports on how OECD Member countries are rethinking their school labs with a move toward more flexible approaches in areas such as incorporating new technology, design, safety, and classroom flexibility. Switzerland, France, Ireland, South Australia, and the state of Maryland are covered. (GR)

Gives advice on the legal necessity of safety planning for school science (or other) laboratories. Recommends looking into governmental definitions of the term "laboratory" to determine which educational activities should be covered by safety planning. (WRM)

This booklet is one of four volumes developed to make the classroom environment more accessible to students with disabilities. The following areas are discussed: (1) What Are Barrier-Free Laboratories and Classrooms? (2) Why Are Barrier-Free Laboratories and Classrooms Necessary? (3) How to Organize Barrier-Free Laboratories and Classrooms; (4)…

This design guide offers guidance to science educators, architects, and others concerned with the provision of science accommodations in Ontario, Canada, either through new construction or the adaptation of existing buildings. The publication is not a blueprint for facilities nor an attempt to standardize all science programs and facilities; it is…

Understanding how people choose their work and educational environments and the dynamics that lead to satisfaction in these environments is critical to optimizing productivity and self actualization. The Strong Interest Inventory and the Social Skills Inventory were administered to 113 undergraduates to test the hypothesis that social types…

This book presents multiple assessment formats and strategies appropriate for inquiry activities for both indoor and outdoor education. Chapters 5-8 feature examples of disciplinary assessment practices for biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. Other contents include: (1) "A Rationale for Assessment"; (2) "Developing New Assessment";…

Discusses some aspects of campus research facility construction that require specialized construction expertise, and which should be considered when reviewing construction proposals. (EV)

Educators seeking support for continuation of science laboratory instruction can find information in the ERIC data base. Sections cover: (1) what's available; (2) beliefs about the role of laboratories; (3) what critics say; and (4) research evidence. (MP)