Here are some quick tips from Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) on how to work safely with a Bunsen burner.
To safely work with a Bunsen burner, please keep in mind the following tips from Environmental Health and Safety (EHS):
- Keep your work area, including the overhead storage area, clear of flammable materials.
- If ethanol is being used with the Bunsen burner, keep it at least 12 inches away from the flame. Use as small a volume as possible and keep it in a container with a low center of gravity. Have a lid or other smothering device and a heatproof glove within reach in case of an accidental fire.
- Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment, including a flame-resistant lab coat, gloves, and eye protection.
- Know the locations of your nearest fire extinguishers, safety showers, eye washes, and fire alarm pull stations.
- If there is an accidental fire, remain calm. Smother the flame if possible. For an active fire, activate the nearest fire alarm pull station. Even if the fire is successfully put out, report the incident to UMB Police (410-706-3333).
For additional information, please contact:
- Andrew Roberts, Fire Marshal, aroberts@umaryland.edu, 410-706-3494
- Simone Houng, Research Safety Specialist-Chemical, simone.houng@umaryland.edu, 410-706-7055