When Science Projects Become Safety Risks: A Duty of Care Reminder
- kevinsdoyle
- 4 hours ago
- 1 min read
A recent incident in which a student was hospitalized after a science project caught fire highlights an important reality for educators: science projects are among the most difficult activities to manage from a safety standpoint.
Read the full article here: https://www.wdrb.com/news/student-hospitalized-after-science-project-catches-fire-at-st-matthews-school/article_f74dae10-58fe-420d-a56e-f2d3dfdb1335.html
As Ken Roy first noted on X, this situation reinforces the need for structured safety oversight.
Unlike controlled laboratory activities, science projects span a wide range of topics. This breadth makes it nearly impossible for any one teacher to be an expert in every potential hazard associated with student-selected investigations. From chemical reactions to electrical builds, each project carries unique and sometimes unforeseen risks.
This is where the Duty of Care and Standard of Care come into play. Educators must act as a “reasonable and prudent person,” anticipating foreseeable hazards and taking steps to reduce risk before a project begins.
Best practices include:
Requiring project proposals and prior approval
Conducting safety reviews of materials and procedures
Providing specific-topic experts as mentors
Limiting or prohibiting high-risk activities
Communicating clear expectations to students and families
If a project cannot be completed safely with the available supervision, equipment, and controls, it should not proceed.
Science projects should inspire curiosity, not create preventable emergencies. With proper planning, oversight, and communication, we can protect students while still fostering meaningful scientific exploration.
Reach out to Kevin if you have any questions about the Science Projects or Science Fairs in your school.
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