STEM classrooms are filled with energy, curiosity, and hands-on discovery—but they also contain hazards that must be carefully managed. In this Safer Ed episode, we break down the three main categories of lab hazards—physical, chemical, and biological—and explore strategies teachers can use to identify and control them.

Through practical examples and proven safety methods, the discussion highlights how preparation, judgment, and a culture of responsibility can keep both students and educators safe.

What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeKey

• The three main hazard categories in STEM labs: physical, chemical, and biological.

• Real-world examples of physical risks often overlooked in classrooms.

• How to use Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to understand and manage chemical hazards.

• Why biological hazards—even simple mold collection—require strict controls.

• The three levels of control: engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.

• When to use substitution or elimination to reduce risk altogether.

• Why shared responsibility and teacher modeling are central to building a culture of safety.

Key Takeaway

STEM labs can be safe, engaging, and fun—but only when hazards are identified, risks are assessed, and safety measures are applied at every level. Safety isn’t just a rulebook—it’s part of the learning experience.

Resources

• Visit edcircuit.com for more Safer Ed episodes and resources.

• Explore Science Safety training modules to strengthen lab safety practices in your school.

This episode was generated in part using AI tools. All content was reviewed and approved by our editorial team before publication.

Science and STEM labs inspire curiosity, creativity, and discovery, but they also come with real risks if hazards aren’t managed.

In this episode of Safer Ed, we explore how teachers can balance the excitement of hands-on learning with the responsibility of keeping students and staff safe. From outdated equipment and dangerous chemicals to biological hazards and risk assessment strategies, this conversation unpacks practical steps every educator can take to create safer classrooms.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why evaluating lab activities before they happen is critical

• Common red-flag materials that no longer belong in schools

• The dangers of unmonitored biological samples and unsafe procedures

• The importance of hazard recognition (e.g., poor labeling, unknown substances, outdated equipment)

• The AAA Method: Hazard Analysis, Risk Assessment, Safety Action

• Safety actions: engineering controls, administrative controls, PPE, substitution, and elimination

• Professional responsibility: when and how to intervene with unsafe practices

• Six intentional practices to prevent accidents:

  1. Review Safety Data Sheets

  2. Inspect all equipment and materials

  3. Review procedures, timing, and waste management

  4. Test unfamiliar experiments beforehand

  5. Substitute safer materials

  6. Weigh educational value against risk

     
     

Why It Matters:
Lab safety isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about building a culture of responsibility and care. When teachers anticipate hazards, assess risks, and take intentional safety actions, students gain the full benefits of hands-on STEM exploration in a safe environment.

Call to Action:
For more resources on creating safer classrooms and lab spaces, visit ScienceSafety.com.

This episode was generated in part using AI tools. All content was reviewed and approved by our editorial team before publication.

In this Safer Ed episode, we continue our series on safety and inclusion in STEM classrooms by exploring universal design and hazard analysis. Instead of reacting to student needs after the fact, universal design ensures that classrooms and labs are accessible, safe, and effective from the very beginning.

Through this conversation, we highlight how proactive planning not only reduces safety risks but also empowers students with additional needs to thrive alongside their peers.

What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeKey Takeaway

• Why universal design matters in STEM classrooms.

• How building accessibility into labs from the start reduces risks and supports all learners.

• Practical examples, such as adjustable lab workstations and multi-format instructions.

• The importance of hazard analysis and risk assessment for every lab activity.

• Why individualized safety planning—from specialized equipment to additional supervision—is essential.

• The role of administrative support in funding resources, staffing, and training.

• How trust and collaboration among teachers, families, and administrators creates safer, more inclusive learning environments.

Inclusion isn’t just a philosophy—it’s a safety practice. Universal design and hazard analysis build classrooms where every student can engage confidently and safely in science and STEM.

Resources

• Visit edcircuit.com for more Safer Ed episodes and resources.

• Listen on your favorite podcast platform.

  
  

This episode was generated in part using AI tools. All content was reviewed and approved by our editorial team before publication.