Good advice and suggested measures for pipetting

• Conduct risk assessments to identify to what extent tasks involve risk (e.g., if pipetting is done more than 50% of the workday, measures should be implemented).

• Provide thorough training and follow-up for new employees.

• Avoid overly large analysis series when planning new projects.

• Vary work tasks and implement task rotation where possible.

• Avoid pipetting for more than 4 hours per workday.

• Take short breaks frequently, e.g., 2 minutes for every 20 minutes of pipetting. Shake out or stretch.

• Ensure all equipment is routinely maintained.

• Adjust table height, chair, and lighting to the task to ensure a comfortable working posture.

• Look for options to tilt the stand.

• Lower the test tubes to keep arms low and close to the body.

• Consider storing Eppendorf tubes in smaller containers that can be frozen, instead of tall styrofoam boxes with ice.

• Place:

  • Equipment used most often within easy reach

  • The container for discarding tips as low as possible

  • Any protocols at eye level

  • A soft surface where you rest your arms

If possible:

• Work with relaxed shoulders and soft support under forearm/elbow.

• Keep the wrist straight in relation to the forearm.

• Ensure the work area is close to the body.

• Avoid working with the pipette above shoulder height or far from the body.

• Use as little force as possible for each operation.

• Consider the possibility of automating certain processes. The following should be facilitated:
  • Automatic pipettes – may be heavy to work with over time due to battery weight. Therefore, these should be tested before deciding which to use.
  • Explore the option of using a dedicated “opener” for Eppendorf tubes. Machines/robots also exist for opening/closing caps/lids.
  • Automated "shakers".
  • Pipetting robots.
  • Use vacuum aspiration instead of pipetting where appropriate.
• Choose pipettes that feel comfortable and fit in your hand.
• Use pipettes with different designs to vary the strain, especially on the thumb.
• Consider pipettes where the eject button for the pipette tip is placed lower on the pipette.
• Choose pipettes and tips that are as short as possible.
• Pipette tips with a flexible proximal end make them easier to attach to the pipette.