Soil Microbial Ecology - Soil Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Page 5
notebook. The instructor may ask to see these from time to time (without advance
notice) to check on your laboratory progress.
LABORATORY OPERATIONS
1. SAFETY
The prime rule in the microbiological laboratory is cleanliness! Your cooperation in
keeping the laboratory clean is requested, for reasons that should be obvious.
ORGANIZATION is closely allied to this rule. In fact, safe and aseptic operation in a
laboratory is nearly impossible unless individual activities are carefully ordered. The
following rules should be followed:
You may want to wear a laboratory coat or apron. This is not required, but it may
save an expensive item of clothing from stains, acids, or alkali.
Organize your laboratory work. The first step is to carefully read the instructions
before class. The instructor will outline the order of the day’s work. Pay close
attention during this portion of the period - it is, in many respects, the most
important.
Wipe the working area of your bench with disinfectant before and after the period’s
operations. The tops of the desks should be kept clean, neat, and free from wearing
apparel and non-essential books.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.
Call the instructor immediately if you have an accident, especially if it involves
spillage of a culture, a cut or a burn.
Shoes must be worn in the laboratory at all times.
Long hair should be tied back to reduce the danger of ignition by the burner.
Do not eat or drink in the laboratory.
Wear safety glasses when working with hazardous materials such as acids and
bases.