LBL04008

Using The Microwave

Author: wzdd	Approved by: S. Thompson	SOP No. LBL04008
Signed:	Signed:	Effective from:
Date:	Date:	Last edited:

1. Purpose

This describes the usage of the BioLab microwave.

2. Scope

This SOP describes usage of the white microwave near the BioLab door and should be consulted prior to using the microwave.

3. Responsibilities

This applies to anyone using this piece of equipment.

The microwave can induce very high temperatures in the item being heated, and the distribution of heat may not be even. An appropriate level of care should be taken when removing heated items: users should wear the insulating gloves provided for this purpose.

When heating liquids, users should consider the use of goggles.

Users are responsible for all spills and must clean the interior of the microwave, including the inner ceiling, if the item being heated splashes. However users should not assume that the microwave is clean prior to using it. Items which are susceptible to contamination should be covered.

5. Related documents

None.

6. Procedures

6.1 General microwave use

TODO. For a template, see LBL04004.

6.2 Using the microwave to prepare agarose gels

The microwave is useful for dissolving agarose powder in water for the preparation of agarose gels. Note that this procedure requires boiling water for up to several minutes. Thermal gloves are required for handling of containers of molten agarose solution, and goggles are strongly advised.

Note that the microwave is not part of the Ethidium Bromide area. As such, Ethidium Bromide /must not/ be present in any solutions being microwaved. For the preparation of Ethium Bromide-innoculated agarose gels, the molten gel should be moved to the Ethidium Bromide area prior to application of Ethidium Bromide.

7. Resources

TODO.