Science Fair Regulations

USE OF LIVE ANIMALS

Before starting a project involving the use of live vertebrate animals, students and their teachers should become familiar with the Massachusetts laws that relate to the use of animals.

HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATIONS

1. Live poisonous animals must not be exhibited.

2. Pathogenic cultures or carcinogenic agents must not be exhibited. Molds and bacterial cultures must be carefully covered and sealed tightly at all times.

3. Hypodermic needles must not be displayed.

4. Push buttons and levers must be mounted securely on exhibits. They cannot be attached to the tables or walls.

5. Materials and construction must be durable. All power-driven movable parts must be firmly attached and enclosed by suitable barriers to prevent unauthorized or accidental access.

6. All wiring of electrical apparatus must conform to the National Electric Code. If you are in doubt, consult a competent electrician.

7. All exhibits which require an external source of electricity for operation must be designed for a standard 110-125 volt AC supply. If batteries are used they should be of sufficient capacity to insure continued operation.

8. The power supply cord for electrical apparatus must be no longer than six feet and terminate in a three-prong grounded plug.

9. All wiring, switches, and metal parts carrying current must be properly selected for load requirements and adequate insulation. No exposed wires, switches, joints, or uninsulated fasteners will be permitted.

10. High voltage areas or any areas which could present electrical hazard must be completely enclosed by a protective barrier equipped with a safety interlock to cut off all power if the cover, door, barrier, etc. is removed or opened.

11. The use of pressure vessels and pressurized containers is permitted providing they conform to Massachusetts Safety Code for such items.

12. In order to protect students and the public, exhibitors must not bring any explosive, flammable, or poisonous materials to the Fair. All acids, caustics, corrosives, and other chemicals should not be displayed. Demonstrational facsimiles are all that are necessary. Use of rocket fuels, armed rockets, and explosives of any type is prohibited.

13. Because of the fire hazard there must be no open flame, torch, or burner in the display area. Electrical heating units must be well protected and may not be near the front edge of the exhibit.

14. Projects which involve radiation such as X-rays, radar, lasers (Class 3 and 4 lasers prohibited), ultraviolet, infra-red, radioactivity, etc. must be provided with adequate shielding and safeguards.

15. Any student interested in doing projects involving Recombinant DNA, tissue culture and human subjects must obtain research and design forms and proper compliance forms in early fall.

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