Conduct in the Laboratory

All personnel using the Panther System and working around the system must observe the following precautions:

Supervision

When testing infectious agents, access to the work area must be limited and supervised.

Biohazardous Components

The primary sample tubes, disposable pipette tips, solid waste container, and waste deflector all represent potential biological hazards. Users must be properly instructed regarding safe handling procedures for these areas of the system. Labeling and appropriate biohazard bags must be used in the system as required.

Loose Objects

Restrain dangling articles of clothing such as ties, long hair, or badges on chains to avoid contact with moving systems components. Clothing must not contain loose objects that can fall into the path of the pipetting probe or into any system cavities.

Facial Contact

Never touch your face with your hands, gloves, sleeves, tools, etc. Take special precautions to avoid your mouth, nose, or eyes. If necessary, wash your hands (or other object) before touching your face.

Barrier Precautions

Wear eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing at all times while working in the laboratory to prevent skin and mucous membrane exposure to potentially infectious materials.

Pipetting

Never use your mouth for pipetting. use only mechanical pipetting devices.

Hand Washing

Wash hands and other skin surfaces immediately and thoroughly in the following circumstances:

• After any skin contact with potentially infectious materials
• After removing gloves and lab coat
• When leaving the work area

Use Barrier Protection

Do not eat, drink, smoke, chew gum, or apply cosmetics in the work area.

Tools and Equipment

To avoid accidental injuries, take extraordinary care when using tools and equipment. Clean tools after use.

Transporting Samples

All samples of blood and body fluids should be put in a well constructed, appropriately labeled container with a secure lid to prevent leaking during transport. The samples must be in an inner container and transported with an outer container. Personnel must be trained to transport biological samples.