The Safe Use of Basic Aseptic Techniques

Aseptic techniques are methods designed to prevent contamination from microorganisms. These methods are used in laboratories when handling microbes.
When using aseptic techniques, it’s crucial to first give importance to personal hygiene. Handwashing is a simple yet effective technique that should always be practised before handling microbes.
Sterilisation of equipment is another aspect of aseptic techniques. It’s crucial to ensure that glassware, tools, and any surfaces where handling will take place are thoroughly sterilised. This can be done through heat (flaming), pressure (autoclaving), or chemical solutions (ethanol).
Lab coats should always be worn to prevent personal clothing from picking up or spreading microorganisms. Wear gloves whenever needed and dispose of them appropriately after use.
Inoculating loops (tools for transferring bacteria) need to be sterilised by heating in a flame before and after each use. This prevents any bacteria from being transferred in or out.
Culture plates in which microbes grow should always remain closed unless absolutely necessary. When opened, the lid should not be put down on the work surface and should be held diagonally over the plate to minimise the exposure to the air.
Never mouth pipette, instead always use pipette fillers/pumps. This helps prevent accidental swallowing or ingestion of microbes.
Always dispose of bacterial cultures and other microbial matter in the designated biohazard waste bin.
Incubating cultures should not exceed 25 degrees Celcius. This is to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria that thrive at body temperature (37 degrees Celcius).
Remember to clean the workstation before and after use. This typically involves wiping down the area with a disinfectant.
If any accidental spills occur, make sure to fully decontaminate the area and notify the lab supervisor.
Taking these precautions not only ensures own safety but also maintains the accuracy of the experiment, as it prevents any unwanted bacteria from corrupting the culture being studied.