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 makes sure that your STEM journey is both educational and safe.

Remember: If something about your project feels unsafe, it probably is! Stop working until you can do so safely, and you have adult supervision.

Why Safety Matters in STEM Projects

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

• Protecting yourself, others, and the environment from harm
• Making sure you have the proper training and protections in place to reduce risk
• 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

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.

Key Safety Areas to Consider

Chemical Safety

• Work in an appropriate environment (e.g., lab, fume hood) with appropriate tools (e.g., clean glassware), including a sink for eye-washing.
• Wear protective clothing, safety glasses, and tie back long hair, loose clothing.
• Work on a clean surface.
• Material Safety Data Sheets have info about chemicals or materials, including dangers and how to handle them safely. For any chemicals you work with, look up their Material Safety Data Sheet.
• If your project involves radiation, you must take steps to keep you, others and the environment safe. Learn more at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Council. This type of project will also require an Ethics Review.
• Post your local Poison Control number in case you accidentally inhale or ingest chemicals.

Remember: Mixing certain chemicals can create unexpected reactions. Always follow the advice of an experienced adult and research chemical interactions before experimenting.

Fire Safety

• Work on heat-resistant surfaces, away from flammable materials.
• If you are working with an open flame, using flammable materials or a chemical reaction where heat is produced, make sure you have the correct fire extinguisher ready, nearby, and know how to use it.
• Never leave heat sources unattended.
• Have a plan for what to do if something catches fire.
• Wear protective clothing, safety glasses, tie back long hair, and avoid loose clothing.

Electrical Safety

Electricity can be dangerous even at low voltages:

• Work on a clean, dry surface, with dry hands.
• Know when the electricity is “on” or “live”, and 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.
• Wear protective clothing, safety glasses, tie back long hair, and avoid loose clothing.

Structural and Mechanical Safety

When building devices with moving parts (e.g. rotating, pinching, spinning), supporting weight, or pressurized:

• Secure all components properly.
• Test weight-bearing structures gradually, with proper support, and with no way for it to fall on yourself or others.
• Shield pinch points and moving parts
• Consider what would happen if your device fails.
• Build in safety features and emergency stops for powered devices.
• Wear protective clothing, safety glasses, tie back long hair, and avoid loose clothing.

Biohazards and Biosafety

Projects involving bacteria, animal tissues, blood, blood products require special care:

• Work in an appropriate environment (e.g. lab, fume hood) and with appropriate tools (e.g., clean glassware).
• 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
• Wear protective clothing, safety glasses, tie back long hair, and avoid loose clothing.

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

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 behaviours.
• Equipment malfunctions or behaves strangely.
• You experience any symptoms like dizziness, headache, breathing issues, or skin irritation.
• You’re unsure about safe next steps or proper procedures.

Remember: It’s always better to pause and get help from your supervising adult 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.

Learn more about doing ethical STEM projects involving humans or animals here.

Documentation: A Safety Best Practice

In your logbook, 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. A STEM project is only successful if everyone stays safe throughout the process!

For more detailed information about specific safety protocols for your project type, visit our complete safety and ethics page, and 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.