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Unit 7 Activity 2

Equipment 101

As you can see, there are a lot of important developments in Bioengineering. Like all fields of engineering, cleaning and maintaining equipment is an essential part of the job. For those in Bioengineering, many of their jobs will require not only taking care of the tools that allow them to get the job done, but also making sure that lab surfaces and equipment are sterile. As you learned, viruses spread very easily. For those working on solutions, they need to make sure that samples are pure. If machines are not properly cleaned, contamination can occur. If this happens, it will alter the results of experiments. Since human health is at the core of biotechnology, these kinds of errors can invalidate the results of any experiment.

Part of the routine care of equipment in bioengineering will be sterilizing equipment. This is a process that eliminates microbes, usually through heat or chemicals. You might have been to the dentist or nail salon and seen tools removed from sealed packages. Tools are stored this way because they are sterile. Other times, items are sterilized by dropping them in boiling water. Just touching equipment with your bare hands transfers microbes, so this is why those working in labs will often wear gloves or protective masks.

Beyond keeping equipment clean, it is also important to store it correctly and ensure that it gets proper maintenance. What this requires will largely depend on the type of equipment. An incubator will need different care than the hard hat a structural engineer is required to wear on the job. Therefore, part of the job of any engineer is to know the proper care, maintenance, and storage of equipment.

For this activity, choose a machine or other piece of equipment that you might find in a bioengineering lab, such as an electronic microscope or a 3-D printer. Once you have chosen a piece of equipment and gotten it approved by your instructor, use the Internet to research the care of this equipment. In addition, discuss how to safely handle the piece of equipment. Create a presentation illustrating how to properly clean, maintain, and store this piece of equipment. Use software such as PowerPoint, Prezi, or another of your choosing. Make sure that your visual elements illustrate your points well and that all writing is free of mechanical errors and easy to read.

1 answer

Presentation Outline: Maintaining and Caring for an Electronic Microscope in a Bioengineering Lab

Slide 1: Title Slide

  • Title: Proper Care and Maintenance of Electronic Microscopes
  • Subtitle: Ensuring Accuracy and Safety in Bioengineering Labs
  • Your Name
  • Date

Slide 2: Introduction to Electronic Microscopes

  • Definition: Electronic microscopes use electron beams to magnify specimens at high resolutions.
  • Applications in Bioengineering: Used for cell structure analysis, material studies, and nanoscale research.
  • Importance of Maintenance: Ensures accurate results and long-term functionality.

Slide 3: Importance of Sterilization

  • Contamination Threat: Touching the microscope with bare hands can transfer microbes.
  • Sterilization Protocols: Regularly clean and sterilize components (lenses, stage, etc.) to prevent contamination.
  • Recommended Sterilization Methods:
    • Chemical Solutions: Use of ethanol or isopropyl alcohol.
    • UV Sterilization: Exposure to UV light for surface sterilization.

Slide 4: Cleaning Procedures

  • Daily Cleaning Routine:

    1. Turn Off the Microscope: Ensure the microscope is powered off.
    2. Remove Dust: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior.
    3. Clean Lenses: Use lens cleaning solution and lens paper, avoiding abrasive materials.
    4. Wipe Stage and Specimen Holders: Disinfect using appropriate cleaning solutions.

  • Weekly Maintenance:

    • Inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
    • Clean internal components if necessary—follow manufacturer instructions.

Slide 5: Safe Handling Practices

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

    • Wear gloves to minimize contamination.
    • Use goggles to protect eyes from chemicals.

  • Safe Operational Techniques:

    • Always handle slides with tweezers or gloves—never bare hands.
    • Ensure that the microscope is stable on a flat surface before use.
    • Keep all liquids away from the microscope to prevent spills.

Slide 6: Storage Guidelines

  • Proper Storage After Use:

    • Cover the Microscope: Use a dust cover to protect from dust and debris.
    • Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment: Avoid extremes of temperature and humidity.

  • Organizing Accessories:

    • Store slides, lenses, and other accessories in designated cases to prevent loss or damage.

Slide 7: Maintenance Check Points

  • Regular Inspections:

    • Check calibration regularly—follow manufacturer guidelines.
    • Schedule professional servicing as recommended.

  • Record Keeping:

    • Maintain a log of cleaning schedules, maintenance checks, and repairs.

Slide 8: Conclusion

  • Summary: Proper care, cleaning, and safe handling of electronic microscopes are crucial in bioengineering.
  • Key Takeaway: Implementing these practices will ensure reliable experiments and promote a safe working environment.

Slide 9: Questions?

  • Engage with the audience: Invite questions or discussions regarding the maintenance of electronic microscopes or other lab equipment.

Slide 10: References

  • List of resources utilized for research (websites, articles, manufacturer guidelines).

Tips for Visual Elements:

  • Use high-quality images of electronic microscopes in use and cleaning procedures.
  • Include infographics to illustrate cleaning steps and safe handling tips.
  • Ensure text is concise and legible; use bullet points to organize information effectively.

By following this outline, you can create a clear and educational presentation on the care and maintenance of electronic microscopes tailored to the unique needs of bioengineering labs.