Exploding misconceptions: Developing a culture of safety through learner driven activities

On the first day of class, many students enter freshman laboratory courses with an opinion that someone else will provide them with everything they need; a mentality often carried over into future courses and workplaces. This presumption causes frustration and unrealistic expectations when not addressed. On the contrary, a first activity of designing a safety contract, continued with an SDS activity, and reinforced by a strict wardrobe expectation refutes the misconception that instructors will hand answers to learners. Rather than providing answers for students, the program provides opportunities to construct appropriate tools establishing individual responsibility, teamwork, and research to develop a culture of safety in the lab. This communication describes safety activities that guide student choices to enhance the culture of safety at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Rolla, MO), State Fair Community College (Sedalia, MO), and Sacred Heart High School (Sedalia, MO).