Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Standard Operation Procedure

Title: Use of Lab Bench Centrifuge Lab: Department of Biological Sciences

Written by Approved by Issue date

Ref. No DBS/SOP/003 Rev. No Page: 001 3

Review date

Yan Tie
1. PURPOSE

A/P Sanjay Swarup

04 April, 2008

This SOP details the procedures in using bench centrifuges in a research lab, and lists all hazards and risks associated with the use of centrifuges, those persons at risk and precautions to be taken. 2. SCOPE This SOP is applicable to all research staff and students, and technical staff working in a lab. 3. RESPONSIBILITY 3.1 It is the responsibility of the PI in conjunction with the laboratory supervisor to ensure that the procedures are done monthly by the appointed lab officers. It is the responsibility of the PI in conjunction with the laboratory I/C to ensure that all research and technical staff and graduate students using this procedure are adequately trained.

3.2

4.

PROCEDURES 4.1 4.2 Only suitably trained persons may operate a centrifuge. Before use the rotor, its lid and seals must be checked for cleanliness and damage. Damaged rotors must not be used. Make sure that the centrifuge is placed level on a steady surface. Ensure that the rotor & lids (if any) are correctly attached & in place before starting the centrifuge. If using a swing-out rotor ensures that the tubes you are using clear the rotor in the full swing-out position. Centrifuge tubes/blood tubes must never be filled above the maximum recommended by the manufacturer. The maximum stated speed must never be exceeded.

4.3 4.4

4.5

4.6

Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Standard Operation Procedure

Title: Use of Lab Bench Centrifuge Lab: Department of Biological Sciences
Written by Approved by Issue date

Ref. No DBS/SOP/003 Rev. No Page: 001 3

Review date

Yan Tie
4.7

A/P Sanjay Swarup

04 April, 2008

The rotor must be balanced to within the limits specified (tubes containing materials of similar densities should used to balance the rotor on the opposing side). The centrifuge must not be operated without the correct cover being fitted and its seals in place. Tube material must be compatible with solvents being used. Use only correctly fitting tubes. Any spillage must be cleaned up immediately. Explosive or highly flammable chemicals must not be used. Never attempt to lift off lid or slow the rotor by hand while rotor is in motion. Turn the POWER switch OFF when centrifuge is not in regular use, to conserve power, and reduce equipment wear and tear. When dealing with biological samples, always wait for approx 5mins before opening the lid to remove the samples.

4.8

4.9

4.10 4.11

4.12

4.13

Only authorized personnel may service or repair a centrifuge. Report all faults promptly. Do not attempt repairs yourself. Do not use centrifuge until reported faults are repaired.

5. HAZARDS ASSOIATED WITH USE OF THE CNETRIFUGE

Mechanical failure of rotating parts (often violent). Contact with rotating parts. Sample leaks causing aerosols, stress corrosion, contamination. Sample imbalance causing machine movement/walking. Fire/explosion. Contact with contaminated components/vapors. 6. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Standard Operation Procedure

Title: Use of Lab Bench Centrifuge Lab: Department of Biological Sciences
Written by Approved by Issue date

Ref. No DBS/SOP/003 Rev. No Page: 001 3

Review date

Yan Tie
6.1 6.2

A/P Sanjay Swarup

04 April, 2008

Centrifuges are potentially lethal. Care and vigilance must be exercised at all times. Laid down operating procedures MUST be followed. People at risk when using a centrifuge. Students, academic staff and technical staff.