American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The first step to take if a fire occurs in the laboratory is to evacuate the area. This action prioritizes personal safety and the safety of others in the vicinity. When a fire breaks out, it can escalate quickly, and the immediate aim should be to ensure that everyone can exit the lab safely to minimize the risk of injuries.

Evacuating the area allows trained emergency responders to assess the situation and manage the fire appropriately without putting anyone at further risk. Additionally, this ensures that personal protective equipment is not neglected during emergency situations, which can lead to greater hazards. After an evacuation, the fire should be reported to emergency services or building security, who are equipped to handle the incident effectively.

In contrast, attempting to extinguish the fire immediately can be dangerous, especially if the person is not trained or the fire is too large to control effectively; this could lead to further injuries. Calling a colleague for help is not the most proactive approach in a fire situation compared to ensuring safe evacuation. Moving all chemicals away from the fire could quickly become impractical and unsafe, especially if the fire spreads rapidly or if hazardous materials are involved.