Guide to the safe handling of solvents in a bituminous ... - Aapaq.org

Every effort should be made to prevent equipment from becomingcontaminated. To reduce the likelihood of equipment malfunction that couldresult in leakage or spill:• Review the manufacturer’s documentation, and keep thatdocumentation for future reference;• Use and service equipment according to the manufacturer’sinstructions;• Ensure that anyone who uses a specific instrument or piece ofequipment is properly trained in setup, use and cleaning of the item.The following sections outline some of the precautions and procedures tobe observed with some commonly used laboratory equipment.• Centrifuges: Improperly used or maintained centrifuges can presentsignificant hazards to users. Failed mechanical parts can result inrelease of flying objects and hazardous chemicals. The high speedspins generated by centrifuges can create large amounts of aerosol ifa spill, leak or tube breakage occurs. To avoid contaminating yourcentrifuge: Check glass and plastic centrifuge tubes for stress lines, hairlinecracks and chipped rims before use. Use unbreakable tubeswhenever possible; Avoid filling tubes to the rim; Use caps or stoppers on centrifuge tubes. Avoid using lightweightmaterials such as aluminium foil as caps; Use sealed centrifuge buckets (safety cups) or rotors that can beloaded and unloaded in a biological safety cabinet. Decontaminatethe outside of the cups or buckets before and after centrifugation.Inspect o-rings regularly and replace if cracked or dry; Ensure that the centrifuge is properly balanced; Do not open the lid during or immediately after operation, orattempt to stop a spinning rotor by hand or with an object, orinterfere with the interlock safety device; Decant supernatants carefully and avoid vigorous shaking whenre-suspending.When using high-speed or ultra centrifuges, additionalpractices should include: Connect the vacuum pump exhaust to a trap;66