Pipettes are essential tools for any lab that performs liquid handling tasks, such as measuring, transferring, or dispensing small volumes of fluids. However, pipettes can also be prone to errors, wear, and contamination if not maintained properly. In this article, you will learn what is the best way to maintain pipettes for your lab, and why it is important to do so regularly.
Maintaining pipettes is not only a good practice for ensuring the accuracy and precision of your measurements, but also for extending the lifespan of your pipettes and reducing the risk of cross-contamination or infection. Poorly maintained pipettes can affect the quality and reliability of your results, as well as the safety and efficiency of your lab. Moreover, some standards and regulations, such as ISO 8655 or GLP, require regular maintenance and calibration of pipettes as part of the quality assurance process.
Regular maintenance of pipettes ensures accuracy, precision, and reproducibility of measurements, which are essential for reliable experimental outcomes. Proper maintenance also extends the lifespan of pipettes, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing experimental errors.
Cleaning pipettes is a simple but essential step for maintaining pipettes. You should clean your pipettes at least once a week, or more often if you use them frequently or with corrosive, viscous, or infectious fluids. To do so, disassemble the pipette according to the manufacturer's instructions and remove the tip, the tip ejector, the piston, and any other removable parts. Wipe the external surfaces of the pipette and the parts with a lint-free cloth moistened with distilled water or 70% ethanol. Avoid using organic solvents, bleach, or detergents as they may damage the pipette or leave residues. Rinse the internal parts of the pipette with distilled water or 70% ethanol using a syringe or a pipette aid; make sure to flush out any air bubbles or debris. Dry the pipette and its parts with a lint-free cloth or compressed air; do not use heat or direct sunlight as they may cause deformation or cracking. Finally, reassemble the pipette and check its functionality. If you notice any leaks, cracks, or malfunctions contact the manufacturer or a service provider for repair.
Clean pipettes promptly after each use to prevent contamination and maintain accuracy. Use mild detergent solutions or enzymatic cleaners to remove residual samples or reagents. Rinse thoroughly with distilled water and allow pipettes to dry completely before storage. Periodically perform deep cleaning and disinfection procedures as recommended by the manufacturer.
Calibrating pipettes is an essential step for maintaining them. You should calibrate your pipettes at least once every six months, or more frequently if used for critical applications or in harsh conditions. When calibrating, you should choose a suitable method and equipment, such as gravimetric, which requires a balance, thermometer, timer, beaker, and distilled water. Set up the calibration environment with stable temperature, humidity, and air pressure. The balance should be levelled, calibrated, and tared. The water should be at room temperature and degassed. Then follow the manufacturer's instructions or standard protocol to perform the calibration procedure. This usually involves dispensing a series of volumes from the pipette at different settings and recording the weights and environmental conditions. Calculate the calibration results and compare them with the specifications to determine if they are within limits - if not, the pipette needs adjustment or repair.
Regular calibration of pipettes is essential to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. Schedule routine calibration checks using certified reference standards and calibrated equipment. Follow manufacturer guidelines and established protocols for calibration procedures, including volume verification, adjustment, and documentation of calibration records.
Storing pipettes is a simple but often overlooked step for maintaining pipettes. To ensure your pipettes remain in the best condition, it's important to store them properly. You should store your pipettes in a vertical position on a pipette stand or rack, in a clean, dry and dust-free place away from direct sunlight, heat sources or chemicals. Additionally, you should store your pipettes with the tip ejector engaged and the tip removed, as well as with the volume dial set to the maximum or minimum setting. This will prevent damage, contamination or loss of calibration, as well as accidental changes in the volume setting or damage to the piston or gears of the pipette.
Store pipettes in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment away from sources of heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Use pipette stands or racks to store pipettes upright to prevent damage to delicate components and contamination of tips. Consider investing in pipette storage cabinets or drawers equipped with UV sterilization to maintain sterility.
Training pipette users is a critical step for ensuring pipettes are properly maintained, as human factors can have a considerable effect on their performance and longevity. To train your pipette users, first provide them with the user and maintenance manuals, and make sure they understand the instructions, warnings, and specifications. Then demonstrate to them how to operate, clean, and calibrate the pipette, including how to adjust the volume, attach and eject the tip, aspirate and dispense the fluid, check for errors or leaks, disassemble and reassemble it, clean and dry the parts, and perform the gravimetric calibration method. Finally, supervise your pipette users while they practice using, maintaining, and calibrating the pipette. Give them feedback and advice on how to enhance their technique, accuracy, and precision. Monitor their performance to ensure they are adhering to quality standards and protocols.
Provide comprehensive training programs for pipette users to ensure proper handling, operation, and maintenance practices. Train users on pipette calibration techniques, ergonomic pipetting techniques, and compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pipette usage. Offer refresher courses and proficiency testing to reinforce best practices and address any gaps in knowledge or skill proficiency.