OHS026
Safe Work Procedure
Faculty/Division
Medicine
Document number
SOMS_IIR_SWP04
School/ Divisional Unit
SOMS, CIIR
Initial Issue date
17/08/09
Current version
1.2
Current Version
Issue date
12/03/10
Next review date
17/08/10
The Writing Safe Work Procedures Guideline (OHS027) should be consulted to assist in the completion of this form.
Safe Work Procedure Title and basic description
Title: Nanodrop Instructions
Description: Quantification of protein, DNA and RNA using the Nanodrop
Associated risk assessment title and location:
Describe the activity or process
Using the Nanodrop
1. Open up Nanodrop software on the computer.
2. Lift the sampling arm.
3. Clean the lower measurement pedestal and arm pedestal with mq H2O and a Kim wipe. Do not use normal tissues on the
pedestals.
4.
Place sample on the lower measurement pedestal.
5.
Close the sampling arm gently (PLEASE DO NOT USE THE WIRE IN OPENING AND CLOSING THE UPPER ARM) and initiate a
spectral measurement using the operating software on the PC. The sample column is automatically drawn between the upper
and lower measurement pedestals and the spectral measurement made.
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Page 1 of 3
Safe Work Procedure
Uncontrolled document when printed
Date Effective: 01/01/2007
Current Version: 1.2, 15/08/2007
6.
7.
When the measurement is complete, open the sampling arm and wipe the sample from both the upper and lower pedestals
using a kim wipe. For a detailed video on how to use see http://www.nanodrop.com/nd-1000-nanodrop-it-like-its-hot.html
After finishing all your samples clean the upper arm and lower measurement pedestals with mq H2O (also see clean up
instructions below).
List all resources required including plant, chemicals,
personal protective clothing and equipment, etc
Nanodrop 1000, mq H2O, pipette, lab coat and gloves.
List potential hazards and risk controls including specific
precautions required
Do not place fingers between upper arm and lower pedestal and operate machine.
Do not touch wire connected to the upper arm.
List emergency shutdown instructions
In the event of a n electrical hazard, turn off equipment at the power.
Inform the plant custodian.
For major emergencies dial x56666
List clean up and waste disposal requirements
General clean up
The primary maintenance requirement of the NanoDrop 1000 Spectrophotometer is keeping the measurement pedestal surfaces clean. Upon
completion of each sample measurement, wipe the sample from the upper and lower pedestals to prevent sample carryover and avoid residue
buildup. It is also recommended that both measurement pedestals be cleaned with de-ionized water upon completion of a testing series.
Apply 5 ul of dH20 solution onto each bottom pedestal.
Lower the upper pedestal arm to form a liquid column; let it sit for approximately 2-3 minutes.
Wipe away the water from both the upper and lower pedestal with a clean lab wipe.
Note: Typically dH20 is sufficient for removal of samples that have dried on the optical pedestals. There are a few cases (i.e. dried proteins) that
may require a more rigorous cleaning protocol. For these cases, we recommend that 0.5M HCl be substituted for with 5 ul of dH20 to remove
any residual HCl. Please follow an HCl application with a water rinse to ensure any residual HCl is removed. Note: Do not use a squirt bottle to
apply de-ionized water or HCl.
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Page 2 of 3
Safe Work Procedure
Uncontrolled document when printed
Date Effective: 01/01/2007
Current Version: 1.2, 15/08/2007
Decontamination of Measurement Pedestals
If decontamination is necessary, a sanitizing solution, such as a 0.5% solution of sodium hypochlorite (1:10 dilution of common commercial
bleach solutions – freshly prepared), can be used to ensure that no biologically active material is present on the measurement pedestals. The
metal fiber optic fittings are made from 303 stainless steel and are resistant to most common laboratory solvents (see “Solvent Compatibility”
appendix). Note: Please do not use a squirt bottle to apply diluted bleach
Special Cleaning Requirements for Proteins
Proteins and solutions containing surfactants can “un-condition” the measurement pedestal surfaces so that the liquid column does not form
well with 1µl samples. If this occurs, “buff” the measurement pedestal surfaces by rubbing each with a dry laboratory wipe for 15-20 times. This
will re-condition the surface allowing the liquid sample column to form.
List legislation, standards and codes of practice used in the
development of the SWP
NSW OHS Act 2000
NSW OHS Regulation 2001
Supervisory approval, training, and review
Supervisor: Amany Zekry and Andrew Lloyd
Signature:
Plant custodian: Danica Martinez
Signature
List competency required – qualifications, certificates, licencing, training - eg course or instruction:

UNSW Laboratory Safety Awareness training

UNSW Occupational Health & Safety Awareness training

UNSW Hazardous Substances training

Training in use of the equipment by the plant custodian
SWP review date: 15/03/10
Responsibility for SWP review: Danica Martinez
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Page 3 of 3
Safe Work Procedure
Uncontrolled document when printed
Date Effective: 01/01/2007
Current Version: 1.2, 15/08/2007