ASCP Laboratory Safety and Quality Control 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: According to OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, what must be present on all chemical containers in the histology laboratory?
- Technician initials only
- GHS-compliant labels with hazard pictograms, signal word, and hazard statements (Correct answer)
- A barcode and lot number
- The manufacturer's name only
Correct answer: GHS-compliant labels with hazard pictograms, signal word, and hazard statements
OSHA HazCom requires GHS-compliant labeling including pictograms, signal word (Danger/Warning), hazard statements, and precautionary statements on all chemical containers.
Question 2: What is the proper disposal method for used xylene in the histology laboratory?
- Pour down the drain with water
- Collect in labeled hazardous waste containers for licensed disposal (Correct answer)
- Evaporate in a fume hood
- Neutralize with baking soda and discard
Correct answer: Collect in labeled hazardous waste containers for licensed disposal
Xylene is a flammable, toxic solvent regulated as hazardous waste; it must be collected in properly labeled containers and disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste contractor.
Question 3: What class of fire extinguisher should be used for a solvent (xylene/alcohol) fire in the histology lab?
- Class A (water-based)
- Class B or BC (CO2 or dry chemical) (Correct answer)
- Class D (metal fires)
- Class K (cooking oils)
Correct answer: Class B or BC (CO2 or dry chemical)
Flammable liquid fires (Class B) require a CO2 or dry chemical extinguisher; water-based extinguishers spread flammable liquids and are contraindicated.
Question 4: What is the purpose of a Levey-Jennings chart in histology laboratory quality control?
- Track reagent inventory
- Visually monitor control values over time to detect trends and shifts (Correct answer)
- Record patient results
- Schedule preventive maintenance
Correct answer: Visually monitor control values over time to detect trends and shifts
Levey-Jennings charts plot control values over time against mean ± standard deviation limits, allowing visual detection of systematic errors, trends, and out-of-control situations.
Question 5: Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling formalin-fixed specimens in the histology laboratory?
- Gloves only
- Gloves, lab coat, and eye protection at minimum (Correct answer)
- Only a face shield
- No PPE required for fixed specimens
Correct answer: Gloves, lab coat, and eye protection at minimum
Formalin is a known carcinogen and respiratory irritant; minimum PPE includes nitrile gloves, lab coat, and eye protection when handling formalin-fixed specimens.
Question 6: What does CAP (College of American Pathologists) accreditation require regarding staining controls?
- Controls are optional if the lab has experienced staff
- Each staining run must include appropriate positive and negative controls (Correct answer)
- Controls are only required for IHC, not special stains
- Controls must be run weekly, not on each batch
Correct answer: Each staining run must include appropriate positive and negative controls
CAP accreditation mandates that each staining run includes appropriate positive and negative controls to verify stain performance before patient results are reported.
ASCP Laboratory Safety and Quality Control 1
According to OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, what must be present on all chemical containers in the histology laboratory?