In the radioisotope laboratory there are proper handling and safety precautions which must be observed. Many of the general safety procedures are similar to those that you have already been instructed in for the chemistry laboratory. In fact, note the similarities from the following list of general laboratory regulations for handling of radioactive isotopes listed from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission:

1. All work with radioactive materials must be carried out in the laboratory that is supervised by an instructor. The laboratory must be clearly and appropriately  labeled so that lab personnel, students and casual observers recognize that this area contains radioactive materials.
   
   
   
   
2. A student should not possess more than one General Licensed quantity of radioactive material at any one time during any laboratory period. Store radioactive materials only in designated storage areas. Do not remove sources from the laboratory.
   
   
   
   
3. Gloves and appropriate safety eyewear should be worn whenever a student is working with any radioactive liquid.
   
   
4. Eating, drinking, or using cosmetics are not permitted in the laboratory.
   
   
   
   
5. Pipetting must never be done by mouth. Use suction device such as a pipette filler.
   
   
   
   
6. All students working with radioactive materials should be familiar with the operation of the radiation survey instruments available in the laboratory.
   
   
7. A survey should be promptly made upon suspicion that an area, clothing, or hands have become contaminated.
   
   
   
   
8. All radioactive wastes must be stored in appropriately labeled containers until disposed. All radioactive liquid wastes are to be poured into the liquid waste container, never into the laboratory sink. All solid radioactive waste and contaminated materials should be placed into the trash receptacle marked "Contaminated Waste".
   
   
   
   
9. Any student having an open cut or wound should not work with radioactive materials.
   
   
10. Students should wash their hands and survey their person for contamination prior to leaving the laboratory.