Safety Rules for a Science Project

1. In order to protect the public, no explosive, highly flammable, corrosive or highly poisonous materials may be brought to the fair. All chemicals must be protected so that there will be no possibility of damage to spectators, neighboring exhibitors, etc. Use of rocket fuels, armed rockets and explosives of any kind is prohibited. This is very important in the crowded conditions at the science fair.
2. Due to the fire hazard, there can be no open flame, torch, or burner. Electrical heating units must be well protected and must not be near the front edge of the exhibit.
3. Projects dealing with radiation, either from x-rays or radioactive materials must present no hazard to the public.
4. Plants must be properly cared for. Provision should be made to prevent offensive odors.
5. No pathogenic cultures may be exhibited.
6. Molds and bacterial cultures must be covered carefully and sealed tightly at all times.
7. Hypodermic needles and syringes must not be left on display. Any exhibit, which includes them, will be automatically disqualified and removed from the fair.
8. All moving parts of machines must have protective covering. Watch particularly for vacuum pumps.
9. Push buttons and levers must be securely mounted on exhibits. They must not be attached to tables or walls.
10. Material and construction must be durable. All movable parts must be firmly attached. Power-driven movable parts must be protected with guards.
11. All electrical apparatus must be constructed according to standard electric safety laws. If you are in doubt, consult a competent electrician.
12. All exhibits which require house current for operation or illumination must be designed for operation on alternating current at 110-115 volts. If batteries are used, they should be storage batteries to insure continuity of operation. Dry cell batteries may be used if they are frequently renewed.
13. Doorbell push buttons must not be used to control 110-115 volt apparatus. Use toggle or push-button switches designed for the proper load. Non-insulated switches, such as knife switches, will not be permitted.
14. All wiring, switches and metal parts carrying current must be completely enclosed by barriers that will positively prevent observers from reaching into the exhibit and receiving an electrical shock. Both front and back of display must be so enclosed. All chassis should be grounded.
15. All electrical joints must be properly secured and insulated.
16. Nails, tacks and uninsulated staples must not be used for fastening wires. Use porcelain and other suitable types of insulators.
17. All wire used in construction of exhibits must be selected and insulated for voltage in use. There must not be any exposed wires.
18. All capacitor banks must have short-out provisions.
19. All solvents must be in proper containers.
20. All pressure vessels should have relief valves.
21. All laser beams must be contained and pulsed electrical circuitry isolated.

This is a suggested list and not intended to be complete. It provides some guidelines for safety as you proceed with your experiment.