All users must adhere to lab safety guidelines in the working environment. This is a University mandate.
Fire Safety and Emergencies
The Michigan Technological University emergency guide applies for all facilities on campus. In case of a fire or another emergency, refer to the University Emergency Guide.
Instrument Settings
As a result of the sophistication of the mass spectrometers and microscopes, the user interfaces of these machines are often complex. Many of the available controls are used for calibration or maintenance and do not usually require adjustment during regular use. For this reason, this facility expects that users do not attempt to make setting adjustments using controls with which they are unfamiliar.
Required Precautions
- If an irregular setting is required, request assistance.
- After each use, return the instrument to its default settings.
- If the user is unable to return an instrument to its regular settings, report the problem.
Compressed Gasses
During normal usage, users should not disturb the compressed gas tanks in ChARM. Please ask for assistance if intervention with gas supplies is necessary.
Properties
Liquid argon and liquid nitrogen are cryogenic liquids. Cryogenic liquids are liquefied gases that have a normal boiling point below –130°F (–90°C). Liquid argon has a boiling point of –303°F (–186°C). Liquid nitrogen has a boiling point of -320°F. The temperature difference between the product and the surrounding environment, even in winter, is substantial. This relatively low temperature can result in damage to human skin or eyes upon contact.
Argon and nitrogen gases are colorless and odorless. On vaporization, cryogenic expands by a large factor. This expansion can cause an inappropriately sealed or damaged container of liquid argon or nitrogen to explode and/or displace the oxygen in the room. This may lead to suffocation without warning.
Required Precautions
- Do not disturb the compressed gas tanks
- When handling liquid argon, always wear eye protection, cryo-gloves, and appropriate leg and foot protection.
Sample Processing and Storage
Sample preparation is not allowed in ChARM. Samples must be removed from ChARM directly following analysis. Storage is not permitted in ChARM. Disposal of samples is not allowed in ChARM.
Biological Materials
Living biologicals that are invasive or infectious or potentially infectious cannot be brought into the ChARM facility.