Product specialist Lucas Westerhof from Poly Temp Scientific regularly gives a short refresher course on location about working safely in class 2A or 2B safety cabinets. By means of an informal presentation, which can be given during the coffee break, so to speak, Lucas highlights the most important points of this equipment. The information is usually not new for analysts, but recognition often resurfaces during the course. This “Oh yeah!” reaction has therefore gradually become the nickname of this course.
The operation as a basis
As an analyst, you do not think about the safe operation of a flow cabinet every moment. As long as no alarm goes off and no light starts flashing, you can expect everything to be safe. It is mandatory to have all cabinets validated and inspected annually, so the cabinets themselves are usually not the fault. But: the flow cabinet only offers optimal protection if the way it works is correct. Only then is it a safe working environment for the analyst, the research material and the environment.
Knowledge of how it works, as a basis for safe behavior
The air curtain
Knowledge of how this safe working environment is achieved through air flow is therefore crucial. A brief disruption of this airflow can already pose a risk. The laminar flow is not visible and that is why video images are shown during the 'Oh yes' course in which the air flow is made clear using smoke.
Also validate knowledge and behavior
Topics covered in Luke's story are; the operation, the correct working method and what to do in the event of an emergency. During a tour of the lab, conversations often arise about points that stand out on the work floor. There are always nice discussions about theory and practice here. The lab managers often indicate afterwards that it is good to have these kinds of discussions. They see the meeting as a kind of validation of knowledge and behavior to get everyone to think again about possible risks that are slowly creeping in.
Starting again soon
As soon as presentations on location are allowed again, there will be enough space to invite Lucas to your lab.
If you are interested, please contact lucas@polytemp.nl
Nederlands