Which of the following is the best way to protect yourself from solvent hazards in the laboratory?

• A. Store solvents in unlabeled containers for convenience
• B. Taste a small amount of the solvent to identify it
• C. Work in a well-ventilated area or use a fume hood
• D. Wear open-toed shoes to keep your feet cool

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that solvent hazards in the laboratory primarily involve inhalation of harmful vapors, skin contact, and accidental ingestion.
2. Recognize that storing solvents in unlabeled containers is dangerous because it can lead to accidental misuse or exposure to unknown chemicals.
3. Know that tasting solvents is extremely unsafe and should never be done, as many solvents are toxic or harmful if ingested.
4. Identify that working in a well-ventilated area or using a fume hood helps to minimize inhalation of harmful vapors by removing or diluting them in the air.
5. Realize that wearing open-toed shoes is unsafe in a lab environment because it does not protect your feet from spills or splashes of hazardous solvents.