It's third period on a Tuesday. Science teachers: Do you know what's stored in the chemical lab in your classroom full of students?

"Education has historically lagged industry in laboratory health and safety planning," according to John Van Raalte, director of industrial hygiene services for the Occupational and Environmental Health Center of Eastern New York.

"This is a really serious issue," he told educators at a recent NYSUT health and safety conference. "There are explosions in classrooms."

The eastern New York center (www.occmedgroup.com) is one of eight state-run occupational health clinics available to workers throughout the state.

Every school district is required to have a chemical hygiene plan, Van Raalte explained, and educators should know who is responsible for implementing it.

Educators can assure their district is complying with health and safety regulations, he said, and ensure their own safety by following a few key steps:

• Material Safety Data Sheets need to be on hand for every chemical in the school, he said. In addition to teachers, they should be available to custodians and school nurses, who need to know as much as possible about a chemical in an emergency.
• Even over-the-counter cleaning supplies brought from home are suspect, Van Raalte said, unless they are all-natural. "Cleaners are chemicals," he said. Many are derived from petroleum; they can evaporate into the air and spread.
• Van Raalte said it is the science teacher's responsibility to inspect lab equipment and first-aid equipment, to conduct drills and have emergency phone numbers available.
• Notify administrators in writing about worn gas hoses, electrical problems and chemical storage updates.
• Know the location of water, gas and electricity cut-off switches, and know how to use all required safety equipment.
• Chemicals should not be stored above eye level or on the floor. Shelves must have protective edges.
• Wear elbow-length utility gloves when pouring chemicals.
• Safety glasses are a must for handling any chemical; face shields and chemical splash goggles should be used with toxic or corrosive chemicals.
• Most chemicals should be replaced annually. When it is time for replacement, Van Raalte urged use of "green" chemicals.

"It's important that we educate our activists on the dangers that exist within the laboratory setting," said NYSUT Vice President Kathleen Donahue, whose office oversees health and safety issues. "We must insist that proper protocols are followed and safeguards are in place to prevent serious injury."