Poisons : It is essential that all dangerous substances, such as cyanides, are always kept under strict control. Steps to ensure such control are as follows:

i) All substances of high toxicity must be kept in a locked cupboard or store and logged in and out as required.

ii) The key should be accessible only to responsible workers in the laboratory and the contents of the poison store should be checked weekly.

iii) Only the quantities required for specific experimental purposes should be issued and then stored in clearly labelled containers.

iv) No work involving poisons should be carried out without knowing the action to be taken in case of accident and, the required antidotes should always be handy. It is usual to issue antidotes and first aid instruction when such substances are issued.