Best Practices For Storing Biological Samples

Lab technicians at pathology labs conduct tests by collecting and preserving specimens and biological samples. These microorganisms can be contagious and impose threats to the environment. Mishandling or improper storage of such materials can contaminate the area, and the experiment could lead to faulty results. If you have a lab that involves storing and observing biological samples, ensure that everyone associated with the practice is familiar with these safety rules.             

 

Know the objectives of preservation

Unless a sample is useful for determining a disease or characteristics of the organism, keeping random biological materials is an absurd idea. Some cells in the fluid may die as soon as they expose to the atmospheric temperature and humidity. Once these samples become useless, they should go to the biological waste section. For instance, if you collect blood from a patient for an experiment, you must conduct the test within a specific period. After preserving important ones, the lab should discard all the leftover samples and used materials.

Maintain environmental impact

The condition of biological material depends on the type of environment that holds it. When you have a business for testing a large volume of specimens and drops of blood, you will collect plenty of samples very frequently. At the same time, putting everything inside one box can ruin them due to contamination. Remember that some samples could become an airborne threat to another cell present in the surrounding. Getting separate cabinets with compartments is the best way to keep them apart. They may need a sealed container to move them from one location to another.

Room dimension

Unlike a hospital room where medical professionals treat one patient, a pathology lab may have various specimens collected at a time. As long as these samples are used, you must follow protocols to avoid accidents and contamination. Ensure your lab facility has enough spaces to collect and process biological materials in separate areas. Some samples are easy to carry in a test tube, but biohazard materials require special precautions for transportation.

To make your pathology lab more functional and productive, consider investing in ESCO biosafety cabinets, countertops, and drawers. You can order these products from a science lab supplier associated with trusted brands.