Laboratory Safety and Quality Control Flashcards

What is the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for formaldehyde established by OSHA?

Answer: 0.75 ppm (8-hour TWA)

OSHA sets the PEL for formaldehyde at 0.75 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average, with a 2 ppm short-term exposure limit.

When should an autoclave (steam sterilization) be used in the histology laboratory?

Answer: To decontaminate biohazardous waste and instruments

Autoclaving uses pressurized steam to sterilize biohazardous waste, contaminated instruments, and materials before disposal or reuse.

What does a reagent QC failure on a negative control indicate?

Answer: Non-specific or background staining is present, suggesting a reagent or protocol problem

A positive signal on a negative control means non-specific staining is occurring, which could lead to false-positive results in patient samples.

In the context of laboratory safety, what is the purpose of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

Answer: To provide comprehensive hazard, handling, storage, and emergency information for chemical substances

SDS (formerly MSDS) documents provide detailed chemical hazard information including toxicity, flammability, PPE requirements, and spill/exposure procedures.

What is the minimum required documentation for each H&E staining run in an accredited laboratory?

Answer: Reagent lot numbers, dates, technician ID, and control results

Accreditation standards require each staining run to be documented with reagent lot numbers, preparation/expiration dates, technician identification, and control staining results.

What action should be taken if a microtome blade injury occurs in the histology lab?

Answer: Immediately wash the wound, report to supervisor, and follow the exposure control plan

Any sharps injury must be immediately addressed by washing with soap and water, reporting to a supervisor, and following the facility's bloodborne pathogen exposure control plan.