Centrifuge Safety

In 1998, the rotor in an ultracentrifuge spun out control, completely destroying the centrifuge, a nearby freezer, the control system for an incubator, and all the windows in the room. Fortunately, there were no workers in the lab at the time of the accident. Even though the rotor had been used extensively without any problems, it was determined that the model was unapproved by the manufacturer. This article outlines 6 additional safety tips to keep in mind while operating a laboratory centrifuge. For more information on centrifuge safety go to: http://www.labmanager.com/stips.asp?ID=105