Evaluative Study of Laboratory Hazards and Safety Interventions in School

This study, entitled “Evaluative Study of Laboratory Hazards and Safety Interventions in School,” aimed to identify the specific hazards present in school laboratories, assess the safety interventions currently implemented, evaluate their effectiveness in reducing risks, and propose improvements to strengthen laboratory safety. The study focused on the Senior High School Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) laboratories of Muñoz National High School.

The study employed a descriptive-evaluative research design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The respondents consisted of 10 Grade 11 and Grade 12 TVL students and 5 teachers selected through purposive and random sampling techniques. Data were gathered through online questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale, focus group discussions (FGDs), and an observation checklist. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentage, and weighted mean, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative responses.

The findings revealed that respondents demonstrated a very high level of awareness regarding laboratory hazards, with an overall mean of 4.41 interpreted as “Strongly Agree.” The commonly identified hazards included physical, chemical, biological, electrical, and fire-related risks. Safety interventions such as safety orientation, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safety reminders, and the availability of fire extinguishers were generally well implemented, obtaining an overall mean of 4.21, interpreted as “Strongly Agree.” The effectiveness of these interventions was also positively perceived, with an overall mean of 3.81 interpreted as “Agree,” indicating that safety measures contribute significantly to reducing laboratory hazards and preventing accidents. Moreover, respondents strongly supported improvements such as regular safety training, stricter enforcement of laboratory rules, improved availability of safety equipment, and regular maintenance of laboratory facilities, reflected by an overall mean of 4.45, interpreted as “Strongly Agree.”

The study concluded that although school laboratories have existing safety interventions that are generally effective, inconsistencies in implementation and resource availability remain evident. Therefore, continuous improvement, regular safety training, proper monitoring, and strengthened safety practices are necessary to ensure a safer and more conducive laboratory learning environment.