Which of the following is a general precaution to take when preparing to work with a chemical?

• A. Smell it first
• B. Know all exit routes
• C. Always carry chemical containers with both hands
• D. Be extremely cautions when mouth pipetting it

Answer: (C)

Handling and transporting chemicals safely starts with keeping a solid grip and steady control. Carrying chemical containers with both hands gives you better balance and a secure hold, reducing the risk of spills, splashes, or dropped bottles that could expose you or others to hazardous substances. This simple habit applies to any chemical you work with and sets a foundation for safer preparation and handling.

Smelling a chemical directly is dangerous and should be avoided; if you need to assess odor, use proper protocols like wafting and only with substances that are safe to sniff. Knowing all exit routes is important for overall lab safety, but it’s more about emergency planning than a routine precaution when you’re actively preparing to work with a chemical. Mouth pipetting is unsafe and should never be done; always use an appropriate pipetting device or bulb for transfer.