Jack A. Gerlovich

The Status of Science Safety in Kentucky Secondary Schools

ABSTRACT Our study sought to answer two questions: what is the status of safety in Kentucky school science programs, and can pragmatic tools be developed to address identified science safety needs? Between the spring of 2003 and the fall of 2004, state agency representatives worked with science safety researchers to assess the status of science safety in Kentucky schools and then create the Total Science Safety System CD-Kentucky Edition that contained all applicable federal and state laws, codes, and professional standards. In addition the CD included safety audits, chemical databases, safety videos, and strategic weblinks. This report concentrates on findings about science laboratory safety at the secondary level gathered from teacher surveys representing approximately 54 Kentucky school districts. Among the most significant findings was that teachers from the participating schools did not know or consistently observe many standard safety procedures. Furthermore, most participating science teachers generally were not aware of applicable science safety laws, codes, and standards.

Science safety: A national status report of state regulations

Summary of safety issues and regulations, including a science safety survey for all 50 states.

Teaching handicapped students in a litigious society

This author shares advise for how chemistry instructors can protect themselves from legal action that might result from injuries to a handicapped student during chemistry lab. This article includes advice for the physically handicapped, learning disabled, cognitively delayed, emotionally disturbed, and others.

Safety Concerns in Student Research and Independent Study Projects.

An author from the National Council of State Science Supervisors weighs in on the safety issues that arise when undergraduate students conduct independent research.

News about a plan for elimination of dangerous or unwanted chemicals from educational institutions

Outlines a cooperative effort among numerous Iowa state agencies in identifying, redistributing, or disposing of hazardous / unwanted chemicals from school science storerooms; includes a list of chemicals suggested for removal.