Staff must be trained on proper pipetting technique, as accuracy and precision are critical for quality data. In many labs, staff can spend hours performing this repetitive task, and are at risk for pain and musculoskeletal injury if proper posture and ergonomics are neglected. Pipetting for long periods has a substantial association with carpal tunnel syndrome among laboratory technicians. There are many ergonomic practices and pipette design features to reduce these risks and enhance comfort and performance.
It is easy to overlook safety and comfort when pipetting. When operators are highly focused on accuracy and precision, thoughts about posture and comfort often fall to the wayside. This can increase the risk of injury in as little as one hour of pipetting per day, and can create considerable problems when pipetting for multiple hours a day.
Fortunately, ergonomic practices have evolved to keep lab personnel safe. Workstations can be designed to facilitate optimal postures and movements, and a variety of floor mats, foot rests, and chairs can help to ensure optimal comfort for every individual. Even small changes, like taking a moment to ensure supplies are within reach or that one is properly seated can make a big difference.
Pipette design has also changed with ergonomics in mind. There are many options for size, weight, grip, plunger, and more to make pipetting safer and more comfortable.
Download This Resource Guide to Learn:
- Ergonomic practices to reduce strain and enhance precision in liquid handling tasks
- How to maintain proper posture and make workstation adjustments for safer pipetting
- A detailed comparison between manual and electronic pipettes
- Expert tips on choosing the right serological pipette controllers
- Key pipette design features that boost comfort and reduce fatigue
- A handy tip sheet for preventing repetitive strain injuries during pipetting tasks
