TA Training: Rules for TAs

Finally, there are some rules that you as a TA will need to follow as well. Besides being responsible for the safety of your class, there are several duties that you will be responsible for performing. Although these duties may seem trivial and may take extra time on your part, they are still extremely important and are expected to be performed by you.

One aspect of your job as a TA is the responsibility regarding waste. It is important to segregate wastes. It is also your responsibility to make sure the waste is properly labeled with the lab number, date, and all waste contained in the waste container. The example to the right shows improperly and properly labeled bottles of waste. Just labeling a bottle “waste” is not enough. Be sure to put out a new waste container well before the current one is full. Lids should be on the containers at all times when students are not actually in the process of pouring waste into the container.

Another job you have to do regarding waste is proper storage. Waste is not to be stored in the fume hood. After each lab period waste containers are to be sealed and removed from the fume hood. They then should be placed next to the hood for the next lab class. They are not to be left open in the hood as illustrated on the right. This may expose the students to waste vapors from evaporation.

Also, it is your responsibility to make sure the fume hoods and the lab are left clean for the next class. It is advisable to assign a TA to do this and check their work before you leave the lab. One area to focus on is the balance(s) area. This area has been especially messy in the past.

Another important aspect of your job is to notify the laboratory instructor of any injuries that occur or any unsafe conditions that you observe in the lab. If an injury occurs, you are urged to notify the instructor and the lab manager, have the student seek medical attention, and must have them fill out an accident report. Make sure that the form is witnessed by another student. This form is to be turned in to your lab instructor and/or manager. Unsafe lab conditions, such as those on the right, should be reported to the lab instructor and manager who will determine what steps should be taken.

Some other aspects of your job will be to clean spills. Make sure walkways between lab benches are clear of obstruction, perform all necessary pre-lab preparations, and any other tasks your lab instructor and manager assign to you. Also, you will be responsible for knowing the safety regulations regarding chemicals you might encounter in the lab. One place to find information on chemical hazards is MSDSs, which are covered in the next unit.
Continue