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Questions and Answers
What was the primary source of laboratory-acquired infections in the past?
What was the primary source of laboratory-acquired infections in the past?
What is the primary purpose of personal protective equipment and clothing in a laboratory?
What is the primary purpose of personal protective equipment and clothing in a laboratory?
What should be worn over normal prescription eye glasses and contact lenses in a laboratory?
What should be worn over normal prescription eye glasses and contact lenses in a laboratory?
What should be removed before leaving the laboratory?
What should be removed before leaving the laboratory?
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What type of plastic are face shields made of?
What type of plastic are face shields made of?
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What is the purpose of a laboratory coat?
What is the purpose of a laboratory coat?
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What is the correct order of actions when leaving a laboratory?
What is the correct order of actions when leaving a laboratory?
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What is the primary hazard posed by centrifuges and other laboratory equipment?
What is the primary hazard posed by centrifuges and other laboratory equipment?
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Study Notes
Laboratory Equipment Hazards
- Laboratory equipment, such as needles, centrifuges, glass instruments, and pipettes, can pose unique hazards to laboratory workers.
- The design of laboratory equipment has evolved over time to improve safety and reduce risks.
Pipettes and Infection Risks
- In the past, researchers used "mouth pipetting" to suction liquids into glass tubes, which was a major source of laboratory-acquired infections.
- Pathogens can also be transferred to the mouth if a contaminated finger is placed on the suction end of a pipette.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- PPE acts as a barrier to minimize the risk of exposure to aerosols, splashes, and accidental inoculation.
- The type of PPE used depends on the nature of the work performed in the laboratory.
- Protective clothing should be worn when working in the laboratory and removed before leaving the laboratory.
- Hands should be washed after removing protective clothing.
Types of PPE
- Laboratory coats, gowns, coveralls, and aprons provide protection against biological and chemical hazards.
- Goggles worn over normal prescription eye glasses and contact lenses provide protection against splash and impact hazards.
- Face shields (visors) made of shatterproof plastic fit over the face and are held in place by head straps or caps, providing additional protection.
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Description
This quiz covers the hazards associated with laboratory equipment, including needles, centrifuges, and pipettes, and how their design has evolved to improve safety and reduce risks.
