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Microfuge Caps
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During heating operations, caps on a microfuge tube can pop open, releasing a radioactive aqueous solution that could contaminate your work area.
Using Cap Locks
A worker in a radioactive materials lab was performing an experiment which involved incubating a 40 µl sample in a 0.6 ml microfuge tube using a dry heat block. As the tube was lifted from the heat block, the cap popped open, releasing a radioactive aqueous solution that contaminated the work area. Cap locks, as shown below, are now being used in this lab during heat block incubations to prevent future occurrences:
Original Microfuge Vial
Cap Lock
The cap lock is a plastic sleeve that slides over the cap and rim of the tube to secure the cap in place.
Cap Lock in Place
Recommendations
Lab personnel are encouraged to obtain cap locks for tubes used in procedures where internal pressures may be generated. Cap locks can be purchased through most laboratory supply venders such as Laboratory Products Sales, Inc, VWR, and Fisher Scientific.
Contact an Expert
Jeffrey Slawson, CHP
Radiation Safety Officer
Environment, Health & Safety
Phone: 716-829-5823
Email: jslawson@buffalo.edu
Emergencies
On North, South and Downtown Campuses
Call 716-645-2222 or
Use a blue light phone
Off Campus — Call 911
UB Guardian — download the safety app