The worktable is an integral part of any laboratory. From a biology laboratory to a chemistry lab or a pharma lab, you will find at least one worktable in the laboratory. Many laboratories also have more than one worktable for work purposes.
It functions as a common workstation. Operators and workers conduct their experiments on the worktables, use it as a platform to take notes and write the data, and it is also a place to store common equipment and so on. So, it is always better to keep the laboratory worktables clean and disinfected.
Why should the worktables be cleaned and disinfected?
Laboratory work tables come in contact with different chemicals and substances. There can also be build-up residue. All these dirt, grime, etc can make the worktable a birthplace for germs and bacteria. This can cause molds, mildews and may also damage the expensive equipment. So, it is always a wise idea to keep the laboratory disinfected. Regular cleaning is also required here. Cleaning keeps the worktables in good shape and increases their shelf-life. Additionally, a cleaner table means fewer germs and a healthy lab environment.
Some universal cleaning tips
A laboratory work table needs to be cleaned regularly. So, if you deal with liquid chemicals and solutions and powdery substances that can cause spillage, it is better to clean the table at least once in a month to prevent any damage. Regular cleaning keeps it in good condition.
Besides that, if there is any type of accidental spillage, then make sure to clean the spillage as soon as possible. A quick cleaning can minimize the chances of damage.
Before you buy a worktable, ask the supplier or dealer about the maintenance and cleaning procedure. It is necessary to maintain a worktable properly.
Some precautions
Before you start cleaning and disinfecting, make sure to wear protective gear to protect your hands and eyes from the harsh chemicals. Protective gears such as latex gloves, goggles, hair protectors, etc are essential. It will prevent accidental burn and also keep equipment damages at bay.
Try to remove all the possible items from the work table so that you get to clean the table completely. Small equipment and fragile items should be removed from the work tables and stored in a separate place before cleaning.
You need to take care of the electrical connectional. So, before starting the cleaning, remove any wires or plugs from the worktables.
It is always advised to perform decluttering before you start cleaning the tables. Decluttering the unwanted less always helps a great deal.
How to clean and properly disinfect laboratory worktables?
If you have a personal work table then make sure to clean and dust it regularly to prevent any damage. You can also use a wipe to clean the tables.
A common way to disinfect the worktables is to prepare a dilute solution with bleach and water and wash the table with wet wipes or soft cloth dipped in this solution. You can also use sanitizing spray if you want to.
In case if the work table comes with an epoxy resin table top, you can use mild detergent solutions, diluted vinegar solution or household cleaners to clean the tabletop. If there is any stain or tough spots then you can use acetone or isopropyl alcohol to remove the spots. A damp soft sponge or cotton cloth can help remove any marring. Try to avoid abrasive sponges, pads or liquids like bleach on the epoxy resin top, You also need to be careful so that there is no harsh dragging on the table. After cleaning, let it dry. You may use mineral oils to polish the resin tabletop and make it shiny.
Stainless steel is durable and a non-porous surface, and is widely used as a worktable top surface. But, it can be vulnerable to damage. You can use detergent solutions or soap mixed with hot water to clean the stainless steel surface. If there is any caked-up dirt then use a soft cloth or sponge and wipe the portion gently. Try to avoid chemicals like bleach(that contains chlorine), abrasive steel wool or sponge or baking powder to clean stainless steel work tables.
Hardwood work tables are natural and need proper care. Since it is a natural element it is very vulnerable to molds and bacterial growth. So, you need to clean the wood worktables with detergent solution or diluted bleach. Try to avoid using too much water during cleaning it.
Here are tips for cleaning and maintaining different types of worktables in a laboratory. You can easily keep your worktables clean by following these tips.
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