One possibility would be to require that they be placed in Ziploc bags while they’re in the lab. That way the bag can be disposed of after the class and the device would be contamination-free. I think most,
if not all, touch screens work through Ziploc bags.
Steve
From: DCHAS-L Discussion List [mailto:dchas-l**At_Symbol_Here**MED.CORNELL.EDU]
On Behalf Of Debbie M. Decker
Sent: Friday, April 17, 2015 10:26 AM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**MED.CORNELL.EDU
Subject: [DCHAS-L] Electronic devices in teaching lab
Hi:
It’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep undergraduates from using their electronic devices in the teaching lab. We disclaim that any damage is not the responsibility of the institution.
Here’s the question: What if something hazardous is spilled on the device and it can’t be decontaminated? Does the device become hazardous waste at that point? What if the owner isn’t willing to give up the device for disposal?
This scenario hasn’t presented itself – yet!
Thanks,
Debbie
Debbie M. Decker, CCHO, ACS Fellow
Safety Manager
Department of Chemistry
University of California, Davis
122 Chemistry
1 Shields Ave.
Davis, CA 95616
(530)754-7964
(530)304-6728
dmdecker**At_Symbol_Here**ucdavis.edu
Birkett's hypothesis: "Any chemical reaction
that proceeds smoothly under normal conditions,
can proceed violently in the presence of an idiot."