Storage of
Samples
GROUP 4 BATCH 2
A few things must be considered
to ensure quality results when
determining the appropriate
storage technique:
proper label of samples
storage container
organization and storage
it is important to properly label samples before
storing them
·
Reduces risk of contamination
Reduces injury to self and others
Maintains clean and organized working
environment
Avoids loss or damage to valuable samples
Maintains integrity of research being
conducted
PRACTICES FOR STORING SAMPLES
Proper Label of Samples
Manufacturer chemical labels must never be removed or defaced until the chemical is
completely used.
All chemical and waste containers must be clearly labelled with the full chemical
name(s) (no abbreviations or formulas) and must contain appropriate hazard warning
information.
Small containers that are difficult to label such as 1-10 ml vials and test tubes can be
numbered, lettered, or coded as long as an associated log is available that identifies
the chemical constituents. Groups of small containers can be labelled as a group and
stored together.
PRACTICES FOR STORING SAMPLES
Proper Label of Samples
Unattended beakers, flasks, and other laboratory equipment containing chemicals
used during an experiment must be labelled with the full chemical name(s).
All chemicals should be labelled with the “date received” and “date opened.”
All laboratory chemical waste containers must be labelled with the name of the
chemicals contained.
All chemical storage areas such as cabinets, shelves and refrigerators should be
labelled to identify the hazardous nature of the chemicals stored within the area
(e.g., flammables, corrosives, oxidizers, water reactive, toxics, carcinogens, and
reproductive toxins). All signs should be legible and conspicuously placed.
choose an appropriate container
Samples that are volatile
should be in a tightly sealed
container, to prevent
evaporation.
example: crimp seal vials
choose an appropriate container
Choose appropriate storage
containers for
samples that need to be store in
a freezer or refrigerator
Ex: cyro tubes.
cryotube is a plastic sample-
tube that is able to stand very
low temperatures.
choose an appropriate container
Light-sensitive
samples should be in amber vials.
Amber vials offer protection from harmful
light and UV rays for light sensitive products.
These general purpose glass vials are made
of Type I Borosilicate glass, providing
exceptional resistance to heat shock and
chemical leaching.
choose an appropriate container
Some containers may deteriorate in presence of some
chemicals and elevated temperature, which will
contaminate sample--choose inert containers and caps.
PTFE lined vial lids cardboard lined vial lid
choose an appropriate container
Choose a container that is good for the duration
of storage
Ex: between Plastic petri dish and Pyrex petri dish.
Plastic petri dish Pyrex petri dish
choose an appropriate container
Laboratory glassware are not designed for
long-term storage, and often lacks a method to
tightly “cap” the container.
choose an appropriate container
Plastic containers are not always sterile and
not compatible with many solvents or extreme
temperatures.
choose an appropriate container
Weighing dishes should NEVER be used for storage of
samples
Organization and storage of samples
A defined storage place should be provided for each samples and the
samples should be returned to that location after each use
Ex: bench, fridge, freezer, glove box, etc
Samples must be separated and stored according to their hazard
group and specific chemical incompatibilities.
Ex: acetic acid and acetic anhydride are both corrosive and
flammable. In addition, nitric and perchloric acids are both
corrosive and strong oxidizers. Separate organic acids from
oxidizing acids using secondary tubs or trays in the corrosives
cabinet.
Organization and storage of samples
Organization and storage of samples
Chemicals samples should be separated by distance. Physical barriers such
as storage cabinets and secondary containers should be used to prohibit
contact of incompatible chemicals in the event that they are accidentally
released or spilled. (Secondary containers are highly recommended for the
storage of liquid chemicals. Secondary containers must be made of a
material that is compatible with the chemical(s) it will hold and must be
large enough to contain the contents of the largest container)
Organization and storage of samples
Organization and storage of samples
Storage of chemicals within hoods and on bench tops should be avoided
Stored chemicals should not be exposed to heat or direct sunlight.
Storage shelves and cabinets should be secure to prevent tipping. (Shelving
should contain a front-edge lip or doors to prevent containers from falling.).
Organization and storage of samples
Liquid chemicals should be stored below eye level to avoid accidental spills.
Chemicals must not be stored in areas where they can be accidentally broken
and spilled such as on the floor or on the edge of a bench top.
Chemicals must not be stored in areas where they obstruct aisles, exits, and
emergency equipment.
Organization and storage of samples
Samples sensitive to air, temperature, and/or moisture should be prepared
and stored in the appropriate environment. The label needs to note the
environment required.
Vacuum Desiccator
Lab Refrigerator Glovebox
Thank You!
