Microtome Safety

Summary

This video provides essential safety and operational instructions for using a microtome. Key steps include properly setting up the workspace, securing knives in appropriate containers, ensuring the flywheel is locked during adjustments, and correctly inserting and adjusting paraffin blocks for trimming. The guide emphasizes the importance of careful knife handling, proper safety precautions, and ensuring the microtome is clean and ready for the next user. These procedures aim to maintain safety, efficiency, and accuracy during microtome operation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) when using the microtome.
• 🔪 Ensure knives are stored properly in secure containers to prevent accidents.
• 🛠️ Inspect the workspace for any loose knives or hazards before beginning.
• 🔒 Always lock the flywheel when manipulating the block, inserting the knife, or taking breaks from cutting.
• ⚙️ Make sure there is no knife in the holder and the blade locking mechanism is open when the lever is down.
• 🧼 Carefully insert the knife into the holder by pressing the plate and locking it with the lever.
• 🛑 Ensure the knife barrier is raised and the flywheel is locked before inserting the paraffin block.
• 🔒 When loading the paraffin block, press your thumb against the chuck and forefinger on the quick release lever to secure it.
• 🪛 Check and adjust the block position relative to the blade before starting to trim.
• ✂️ For trimming, press the button for coarse trimming and release for fine trimming to adjust thickness.
• 🧹 Always brush trimmed material off the plate using an upward motion and ensure the microtome is cleaned after use.

Q & A

What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when using a microtome?

It is essential to wear gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat while operating the microtome to ensure personal safety.

Why is it important to inspect the workspace before using the microtome?

Inspecting the workspace ensures there are no loose knives or hazards that could cause accidents during operation. It also helps in verifying that all necessary equipment is available.

What should be done with knives before and after use?

Knives should always be stored in appropriate containers and never left lying on the bench. After use, they should be securely placed back into a container to avoid accidents.

What safety precaution must be followed when adjusting or manipulating the microtome?

Always ensure the flywheel is locked before manipulating the block or inserting the knife, and when there is a break in cutting. This prevents accidental movement of the microtome during operation.

How should the knife be inserted into the holder?

To insert the knife, carefully remove it from its container, press the plate down, slide the knife into the holder, and then engage the locking mechanism by lifting the lever.

What should be done before inserting the paraffin block into the microtome?

Before inserting the paraffin block, make sure the knife barrier is lowered, and the flywheel is locked. Adjust the block position to ensure it aligns correctly with the blade.

How do you perform coarse and fine trimming on the microtome?

Coarse trimming is done by pressing the trimming button to expose the full face of the tissue. For fine trimming, release the button to make more precise adjustments.

Why is it important to lock the flywheel before removing the paraffin block?

Locking the flywheel ensures the microtome is stationary, preventing unintended movement and ensuring safe removal of the paraffin block.

What should be done to disengage the knife from the holder?

To disengage the knife, press the plate down, lower the lever of the locking mechanism, and carefully slide the knife out of the holder. Place the knife in a secure container afterward.

What steps should be taken to clean the microtome after use?

After use, brush any trimmed material off the plate using an upward motion. Ensure the knife is properly disengaged and stored securely. Finally, clean the microtome and make sure it is ready for the next user.