American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the American Chemical Society Laboratory Safety Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What is the risk associated with spilled mercury in the lab?

It is safe once cleaned up
It can be a source of cumulative poisoning
It only poses threats to equipment
It poses no risk to human health

The correct answer is: It can be a source of cumulative poisoning

The risk associated with spilled mercury in the lab stems from its potential to cause cumulative poisoning in humans. Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can have serious health effects if it enters the body. When mercury is spilled, it can easily vaporize at room temperature, and inhalation of its vapors can lead to mercury poisoning. Additionally, mercury can be absorbed through the skin and can accumulate in the body over time, leading to long-term health issues such as neurological problems and damage to vital organs. The nature of mercury means that even small amounts, if not cleaned up properly, can pose ongoing risks to lab personnel and the environment. This cumulative effect is particularly dangerous because symptoms may not appear immediately and can worsen with continued exposure over time. Therefore, proper precautions and swift, effective cleanup are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with mercury spills in the laboratory setting.