Happy New Year: Start the Semester Safely: Run the Water in Your Science Labs

Happy New Year! As schools reopen after extended breaks, it’s easy to focus on lesson plans, calendars, and supplies. One critical safety step, however, is often overlooked: running the water in your science labs.

Any plumbing that has gone unused, lab sinks, prep room faucets, emergency eyewash stations, and safety showers, can accumulate bacteria, sediment, and debris, including Legionella bacteria.. When that water is the first thing students or staff encounter, it introduces unnecessary and preventable risk into the learning environment.

Running the water for several minutes helps flush out stagnant water and reduces potential exposure, especially in areas where water comes into direct contact with skin, eyes, or laboratory equipment. This simple action supports both health and safety best practices and reinforces a culture of professionalism and duty of care in the lab.

Safety in science education isn’t just about dramatic incidents or emergency responses. It’s about daily habits that promote healthier environments and demonstrate care for the people who occupy those spaces. These routine practices send a clear message: safety is intentional, proactive, and non-negotiable.

As you prepare for students’ return, take a few extra minutes to run the water in your labs. Small steps like this help protect students, colleagues, and yourself—and they set the standard for the year ahead.

For more information or to schedule professional learning on laboratory safety and healthy science environments, contact Kevin at kevin@kevindoyleconsulting.com.

When in doubt, choose the habit that makes the environment safer.