Which safety measure should be taken when using blenders in the lab?

When using blenders in the lab, ensuring that the lid is secured is an essential safety measure. This practice prevents spills and splatters of the substances being blended, which could pose a risk of exposure to hazardous materials or create a messy and potentially dangerous work environment. A secured lid also helps to contain any aerosols or particulates that may be generated during blending, thus protecting the user and others in the vicinity from inhalation of harmful substances.

In contrast, running the blender on high could lead to accidents or unintended results in the mixing process, while using it in a non-ventilated area would increase the risk of inhaling harmful fumes or particulates. Additionally, limiting use to solid materials is not practical, as many laboratory applications require blending of liquids or mixtures that may include solids. Thus, securing the lid is the best practice for promoting both safety and efficacy when using blenders in a laboratory setting.