Lab Assistant

prepares materials for practicals, maintains equipment, ensures safety protocols are followed, manages lab inventory, and assists teachers and students with lab work. Key duties include setting up experiments, cleaning equipment, ordering supplies, conducting safety checks, creating worksheets, and organizing the lab space to facilitate learning and a safe environment for all users.   Key Responsibilities Preparation & Setup: Liaise with teachers to understand their needs for practical sessions.  Set up apparatus, equipment, and rooms for lessons.  Prepare solutions, reagents, and materials as instructed for experiments.  Run trials of experiments to ensure they work correctly before class time.  Maintenance & Housekeeping: Ensure all equipment and apparatus are clean, well-maintained, and in good working order.  Organize and maintain the safe storage of chemicals, equipment, and other materials.  Conduct regular cleaning and maintenance of the laboratories.  Perform routine checks on equipment, including testing portable electrical equipment and fume cupboards.  Safety & Compliance: Implement and enforce health and safety policies for a safe working environment.  Understand and follow relevant legislation and school safety guidelines.  Carry out risk assessments for lab activities.  Manage the proper disposal of waste and maintain safety records.  Inventory & Administration: Maintain an accurate stock register and perform annual stock checks.  Order new equipment and consumables, verifying receipt of supplies.  Maintain records for equipment, experiments, and laboratory resources.  Assist with departmental budget tracking for lab expenditure.  Support for Teaching Staff & Students: Provide technical assistance and instructions to teachers and students on using equipment and procedures.  Assist with class demonstrations and advanced lab techniques.  Prepare and organize worksheets and instructional materials.