Tongs and test tube holders

Tongs are used to handle some hot objects. A typical use would be to place a piece of magnesium ribbon in a Bunsen flame. When it burns it is going to become very hot, and you wouldn't want it in your fingers! They are not suitable for picking up test tubes and beakers. They will not grip well and an accident is very likely. Use test tube holders for test tubes and boiling tubes. Larger holders are available for beakers or you could wear a pair of heat proof gloves.

Test tube holders do what they say! Always use test tube holders when heating a test tube in a Bunsen burner. It may not be hot to start with, but this can suddenly change. Make sure that you use the correct heating technique, otherwise the test tube holder will get very hot and you will end up with burnt fingers. The holders should be just under the rim of the test tube to limit overheating.