American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test

What precaution should be taken when handling solvents?

1. Wear sandals for comfort.

2. Use gloves to avoid skin contact.

3. Always work without a fume hood.

4. Mix them freely in open containers.

The correct answer is: Use gloves to avoid skin contact.

When handling solvents, using gloves to avoid skin contact is essential for several reasons. Solvents can be hazardous, causing skin irritation, allergic reactions, or even more severe health risks depending on the chemical nature of the solvent. Gloves act as a barrier, providing protection against direct contact and absorption through the skin, which can have immediate and long-term health effects. Moreover, wearing gloves ensures that any potential contaminations from the solvents do not transfer to surfaces or other materials, promoting a safer working environment. In contrast to this crucial safety measure, other approaches, such as wearing sandals, not using a fume hood, or mixing solvents freely in open containers, pose significant risks. Footwear like sandals does not provide the necessary protection for the feet in case of spills. Avoiding a fume hood when working with volatile or toxic solvents can expose individuals to harmful vapors and fumes. Lastly, mixing solvents in open containers increases the likelihood of spills and exposure, especially if volatile substances are involved, which can lead to fire hazards or health risks. Thus, using gloves is a fundamental practice to ensure personal safety when dealing with solvents.