How Creative Conservation of Lab Supplies Helps Manage Waste?

The simplest step to conserving reagents is to take the time to ensure that the correct reagent is used and dissolved correctly.

FREMONT, CA: Conservation has become critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, inspiring some labs to devise creative ways to conserve their supplies. In order to prevent waste in your organization, it is essential to take the time to ensure that things are done correctly - not rushing, which can lead to errors. Be aware of ordering. Consider forecasting anticipated supply use when ordering, and avoid over-ordering as expired products are still a waste. Protocols should be followed, and one should stay aware of their surroundings to avoid bumping into things or getting their lab coat caught in an obstacle.

Avoiding mistakes

It is highly recommended that labs conserve their supplies during supply shortages. Taking a few extra steps to be proactive can help laboratories prevent waste and ensure their supplies are there when needed. The vacuum seals should be opened slowly; pipettes should be over tubes before the centrifuge should be spun at the right speed; clinical tubes should be filled to the proper level.

Supply tracking

A good process for keeping needles in stock was developed and several distributors were found to ensure supply. Each lab location and overall totals were tracked manually within the hospital system. Team members monitor expiration dates, ensuring they can use the stock before it expires, and monitor how many days' worth of supply the lab has. As well as monitoring test volumes to maximize utilization, they also monitor test quality. If staff members suspect overuse of supplies, a test utilization committee reviews test appropriateness and volume. 

Measures for green supply

Green measures were used before the pandemic, such as washable lab coats. It is imperative that management minimizes waste and prioritizes solutions that protect the environment from reducing waste. Hazardous materials mustn't be over-ordered to minimize risks and disposal costs. As an alternative to hazardous materials, labs may substitute less hazardous liquids, solvents, and reagents, such as glass cleaning chemicals and extraction solvents, when available.