Incidence of Mishap and Level of Awareness on Laboratory Safety Among First Year College Students

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the level of awareness on laboratory safety among first-year college students of MSU-Sulu. A quantitative descriptive research design was utilized in analyzing the data. The study was conducted with ninety-eight (98) first-year college students of MSU-Sulu that were randomly selected from different courses who were officially enrolled with laboratory subjects and who have experienced laboratory activities. A self-devised Likert Scale questionnaire was constructed to gather the data for the study. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. The findings indicated that most first-year college students had moderate to low awareness of the pictograms posted in the laboratory rooms. Although there was a low rate in terms of mishaps (accidents) that occurred in the academic laboratory, however with the findings provided by the study, it is still highly recommended that further implementation and improvement of lab safety measures to enhance students' awareness and ensure a safe and healthy working environment in the institution. In general, the study's findings reveal a need for further improvement in education and training on laboratory rules and safety in handling laboratory chemicals and equipment.