Safe Use and Function of Laboratory Equipment

Review Activity

Micropipettes

Used for measuring and transferring small volumes of liquids, usually in microliters.

Serological Pipets

Typically used for transferring larger volumes and require manual aspiration and expulsion.

Electronic Balances

Used to measure the mass of materials with high precision.

pH Meters

Measures the pH of liquid solutions.

Stirrers

Agitate liquids or mixtures to ensure even mixing.

Shakers

Used for more vigorous shaking of flasks or tubes.

Vortexers

Rapidly shakes a test tube or flask to mix contents thoroughly.

Water Baths

Provides a controlled, consistent temperature environment for heating samples.

Autoclaves

Sterilizes equipment and materials using high-pressure steam.

Biological Safety Cabinets (BSC)

Contain and protect laboratory personnel and the environment from hazardous biological agents.

Fume Hoods

Ventilates hazardous fumes or vapors from chemicals.

Centrifuges

Used to separate components of a mixture by spinning at high speed.

Spectrophotometers

Measures the intensity of light absorbed or transmitted by a sample.

Microscopes

Used for observing small samples at high magnification.

Electrophoresis Equipment

Used to separate molecules based on size, charge, and other properties.

Incubators

Provides a controlled temperature environment for culturing cells or bacteria.

Heat/Cool Blocks

Used to heat or cool samples at controlled temperatures.

Chromatography Equipment

Used to separate components of a mixture in liquid or gas chromatography.

Micropipettes & Serological Pipettes Safety/Use Considerations

Always check the pipette for damage. Use proper technique to avoid contamination. Calibrate regularly to ensure accurate measurements. Dispose of pipette tips and serological pipets properly.

 Electronic Balances Safety/Use Considerations

Ensure the balance is on a flat, stable surface. Always zero the balance before use. Avoid placing substances directly on the balance surface; use a weighing boat or paper.

pH Meters Safety/Use Considerations

Calibrate the pH meter regularly using standard buffer solutions. Clean the electrode after each use. Handle with care to avoid damage.

Stirrers/Shakers Safety/Use Considerations

Ensure containers are securely placed to avoid spills. Use appropriate speed and time settings for your application.

Vortexer Safety/Use Considerations

Do not leave the vortexer unattended. Ensure that the tube is properly placed to avoid splashes or spills.

Water Baths Safety/Use Considerations

Do not submerge electrical components in water. Always monitor temperature settings. Avoid overheating samples.

Autoclaves Safety/Use Considerations

Ensure doors are properly closed before starting. Follow proper loading procedures and always allow equipment to cool before opening.

 Biological Safety Cabinets (BSC) Safety/Use Considerations

Regularly check airflow and filters. Always work within the designated work area and keep the airflow clear.

 Fume Hoods Safety/Use Considerations

Always keep the sash at the recommended height. Never block the airflow or place objects in front of the exhaust vents.

 Centrifuges Safety/Use Considerations

 Always balance the centrifuge tubes. Close the lid before starting, and never open the lid while the rotor is still spinning.

Spectrophotometers Safety/Use Considerations

Clean the sample holders before use. Calibrate regularly with standard solutions.

Microscopes Safety/Use Considerations

Always use the correct objective lens for your sample. Handle lenses and slides carefully. Clean lenses with proper materials.

Electrophoresis Equipment Safety/Use Considerations

Ensure proper gel preparation and voltage settings.  Use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles, when handling chemicals and electrical equipment

Incubators Safety/Use Considerations

Regularly check the temperature settings. Use proper labeling and avoid overcrowding the incubator.

Heat/Cool Blocks Safety/Use Considerations

Set the correct temperature before use. Always ensure proper sample placement to avoid contamination.

Chromatography Equipment Safety/Use Considerations

Use proper solvents and ensure safe handling of chemicals. Clean equipment thoroughly after use.