While not all sources can totally agree on what are the four most important items that a scientific lab should have, there are a few that generally make the majority of “top 10” lists. These items are arguably essential for ensuring the accuracy of experimental results. Purchasing high-quality equipment is crucial. Here are four important items in which a scientific lab should invest.
1. Fume Hoods
Fume hoods are an important item in any scientific lab. They help to protect lab workers from dangerous vapors and fumes produced by experiments. Fume hoods work by drawing air away from the user and into the hood, where it is filtered and then released back into the environment. Investing in high-quality fume hoods is critical for ensuring the safety of lab personnel.
2. Microscopes
Microscopes are yet another important item in any scientific lab. They allow researchers to study and analyze various samples at a microscopic level. Accurate experimental results require the use of high-quality microscopes. There are numerous varieties of microscopes available, each with a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. For instance, electron microscopes, which are more powerful than light microscopes in terms of magnification, must operate in a vacuum.
3. Centrifuges
Centrifuges are used to separate solids and liquids based on their specific density. They are commonly used in scientific labs to separate DNA, blood samples, and other biological materials. Investing in high-quality centrifuges is essential for guaranteeing accurate results. For example, ultracentrifuges can separate particles based on their shape and size.
4. Incubators
Cell cultures are grown and kept alive in incubators. Accurate experimental results depend on the use of high-quality incubators, which are also a necessity. Cells can grow and divide in an ideal environment thanks to the controlled environments they provide. For instance, CO2 incubators can offer a consistent environment with regulated CO2 levels, humidity, and temperature.
Don’t Forget Safety Equipment
Safety equipment is also essential for ensuring the safety of lab staff in addition to the aforementioned tools. Here are some examples of safety gear that a laboratory should buy:
*Eye Wash Stations: Eye wash stations are used to rinse harmful substances such as chemicals out of the eyes in case of an accident. They should be located within 10 seconds’ reach of any hazardous area.
*Face Shields: Face shields protect the face from flying debris, chemical splashes, or various other hazards that could cause an injury.
*Safety Showers: Safety showers are used to rinse off dangerous substances like chemicals in case of an accident. These should also be located within 10 seconds’ reach of any hazardous area.
In conclusion, purchasing top-notch tools and safety gear is crucial for ensuring the security of lab workers and the precision of experimental results. The necessary equipment that a scientific lab should purchase includes fume hoods, microscopes, incubators, centrifuges, face shields, eye wash stations, and safety showers, to name a few. Making a scientific lab a safer place helps keeps everyone safe and healthy and ensures that results aren’t skewed because of avoidable hazards.
