8 habits of great laboratory technicians
A great laboratory technician is often key to the success of laboratory management.
I
protective equipment (PPE). Great laboratory
important as maintaining safety standards in the
technicians are aware of OHS procedures and follow
laboratory. They also keep a record of time and
standard operating procedures (SOPs) to assist in the
perform tests as per the defined lab protocols, stand
reduction of risks associated with potential hazards.
rules and methodologies. They record the result as
rrespective of the type of laboratory environment,
They have the locations of emergency telephone
soon as possible to ensure data integrity. On top of
great technicians adapt and take on a few common
numbers, spill kits, eyewash fountains, emergency
that, a clean and uncluttered workspace not only
habits that facilitate laboratory-based scientific
exits and evacuation routes at their fingertips!
provides a pleasant environment to work in, but
investigations in the best way possible.
also helps keep the head clear and focused!
Attention to detail Knowledge
Great laboratory technicians are attentive to detail
Great laboratory technicians know the end from the
in all aspects of their role from the purchasing of
Maintaining the lab area by creating a schedule
beginning. Knowledge of the procedure and desired
laboratory consumables and equipment to the
They have a regular schedule for daily and weekly lab
outcomes is important when deciding what equipment
operating procedures of instrumentation in their
activity and make certain that everything in the lab is
and consumables will be needed. They are not afraid
laboratory. Great lab technicians know that accuracy
in great working order. That schedule often includes
to ask questions if unsure of needs and requirements.
is crucial for a valid outcome to any laboratory test.
(but is not limited to) some of the following items:
Safety first
Organisation
• Calibration of equipment
They have a great habit of enforcing the OHS in their
They have a habit of doing everything in an
• Cleaning of glassware
space to ensure a healthy and risk-free environment.
organised manner. They know and understand that
• Placement of equipment
They understand the importance of wearing personal
maintaining quality control standards is equally as
• Tidiness of storage areas
• Cleaning the work area
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Russell Grace, Director