Laboratory Safety Analysis of SMPIT Izzatul Islam Students in the Implementation of Science Practicum

Abstract

Science education at the junior secondary school (SMP) level relies heavily on laboratory practicum activities to develop basic skills and visualize theoretical concepts. However, these activities carry a high potential safety risk when Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) procedures are not properly understood and applied. This study aims to analyze the level of cognitive understanding and the application of laboratory safety behavior among students of SMPIT Izzatul Islam in conducting science practicum. A descriptive quantitative method was employed through the distribution of a 15-item questionnaire to 30 respondents. The results showed that the majority of students fell into the “Fair” category (73%), with smaller proportions in the “Very Good” (17%), “Good” (7%), and “Poor” (3%) categories, while no students were classified as “Very Poor” (0%). The overall mean percentage across respondents was 56.1%, which still falls within the “Fair” category range. These findings indicate that students already possess basic knowledge of, and compliance with, safety rules, but have not yet achieved a deep and consistent understanding, particularly regarding the technical aspects of OHS.