Exploring science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on projects is exciting, but safety should always be your top priority! Whether you’re conducting experiments, building prototypes, or testing innovations, following proper safety guidelines ensures that your STEM journey remains both educational and injury-free.

Why Safety Matters in STEM Projects

When you’re caught up in the excitement of discovery, it can be easy to overlook potential risks. But STEM projects often involve tools, materials, and processes that require careful handling. Taking safety seriously means:

• Protecting yourself from harm
• Ensuring your project results are reliable
• Building good habits for future scientific work
• Demonstrating responsibility and professionalism

The #1 Safety Rule: Adult Supervision

Always have adult supervision when working on STEM projects that involve potential hazards. This is non-negotiable, especially for projects involving chemicals, heat, electricity, or biological materials.

An experienced adult can:

• Help identify risks you might not recognize
• Assist if something goes wrong
• Provide guidance on proper techniques
• Help you access appropriate safety equipment

Key Safety Areas to Consider

Chemical Safety

When working with any chemicals, even household substances like vinegar or baking soda:

• Work in a well-ventilated area with appropriate equipment
• Wear protective gear (safety glasses, gloves, lab coat if available)
• Keep your work surface clean and organized
• Know how to properly dispose of chemicals
• Research potential hazards before beginning (using Material Safety Data Sheets)

Remember that mixing certain chemicals can create unexpected reactions. Always research chemical interactions before experimenting.

Fire Safety

Heat and open flames require extra caution:

• Work on heat-resistant surfaces away from flammable materials
• Know where the nearest fire extinguisher is located and how to use it
• Keep long hair tied back and avoid loose clothing
• Never leave heat sources unattended
• Have a plan for what to do if something catches fire

Electrical Safety

Electricity can be dangerous even at low voltages:

• Ensure your hands and work area are dry
• Know how to disconnect power quickly if needed
• Use appropriate wires and components for your project
• Avoid overloading circuits
• Be especially careful when working with wall outlets or high voltage

Structural and Mechanical Safety

When building devices with moving parts or supporting weight:

• Secure all components properly
• Test weight-bearing structures gradually
• Shield pinch points and moving parts
• Consider what would happen if your device fails
• Build in safety features and emergency stops for powered devices

Biohazards and Biosafety

Projects involving microorganisms, plant or animal tissues require special care:

• Use proper containment methods
• Disinfect work surfaces before and after use
• Dispose of biological materials properly
• Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling specimens
• Some biological projects may require ethics review or special permissions

Download our Safety in STEM Projects checklist to keep these guidelines handy while working on your project.

Before You Begin: Safety Planning

Before starting any STEM project, take time to:

1. Identify potential hazards in your planned activities
2. Research safety protocols specific to your project type
3. Gather appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, etc.)
4. Create an emergency plan in case something goes wrong
5. Discuss your safety plan with your supervising adult

Red Flags: When to Stop and Reassess

Trust your instincts! If something feels unsafe, it probably is. Stop your project immediately if:

• You notice unexpected reactions or behaviors
• Equipment malfunctions or behaves strangely
• You experience any symptoms like dizziness, headache, or skin irritation
• You’re unsure about the next steps or proper procedures

Remember: It’s always better to pause and get help than to continue with an unsafe situation.

Ethics Considerations

Safety isn’t just about physical harm—ethical considerations are also important:

• Projects involving people or animals may require special permissions
• Consider environmental impacts of your materials and disposal methods
• Respect privacy and confidentiality when collecting data
• Give proper credit to sources and collaborators

Documentation: A Safety Best Practice

Keep a detailed record of:

• Safety precautions you implemented
• Any unexpected incidents or close calls
• Modifications made to improve safety
• Safety equipment used

This documentation demonstrates your commitment to responsible science and can help others learn from your experience.

Remember

Great scientists prioritize safety. The most successful STEM projects are those where everyone stays safe throughout the process!

For more detailed information about specific safety protocols for your project type, visit our complete safety guide on mySTEMspace.ca or consult with your teacher or mentor.

Safety isn’t just a set of rules—it’s an essential part of the scientific process that allows your creativity and curiosity to flourish without unnecessary risks.