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Joint Research Group Macromolecular Crystallography

Safety Guidelines for Protein Sample Handling at the Beamline

At our beamlines, safety is our top priority. To ensure a smooth and secure experience, please review the following safety requirements before your visit.

Table of Contents


Protein Sample Declaration

Before arriving, all users must declare the samples they are bringing by completing the required safety information in GATE. Each protein and project must have its own individual safety details, including:

  • Source and host origin classification

  • Risk category

  • Sample status (e.g., frozen in loop, capillary, or in tray)

  • Information on hazardous ligands

  • Additional equipment requirements (e.g., laser, cooler)

Important: 🚫 Radioactive materials (e.g., uranium acetate) are strictly prohibited at our beamlines!


Disposal of Hazardous Waste and Harmful Items

Users must follow all safety protocols when disposing of hazardous materials. The following must be discarded in designated containers:

  • Toxic waste

  • Heavy atom solutions

  • Glass and sharp objects


Safe Handling of Liquid Nitrogen

Only trained and authorized personnel are permitted to handle liquid nitrogen.

⚠️ Hazards of Liquid Nitrogen:

  • Splashes may cause eye injuries

  • Frozen object fragments can fly and cause harm

  • Direct contact can result in severe tissue damage

🛑 Safety Precautions:

  • Avoid direct contact with frozen objects or liquid nitrogen.

  • Always wear safety goggles when pouring or transferring liquid nitrogen.

  • Use protective gloves and tongs when handling objects submerged in liquid nitrogen.

  • Use a dewar vessel correctly to prevent oxygen condensation.

First Aid for Cryogenic Burns

  • If liquid nitrogen contacts skin or eyes, immediately flush the area with lukewarm water (DO NOT use hot water).

  • If blisters form or deep tissue freezing occurs, seek immediate medical attention.


Oxygen Enrichment Risks

When using liquid nitrogen for deep cooling, it is essential to limit its residence time in open dewar vessels to prevent oxygen condensation.

🔹 Why is this important?

  • Oxygen-enriched nitrogen can react explosively with organic materials.

  • Liquid oxygen contamination is difficult to detect but may appear as a slight blue coloration.

  • Using a properly fitted cover for dewar vessels helps slow down oxygen condensation.

  • Never return nitrogen from a dewar vessel to a storage container.

(Source: Working Safely in Laboratories – Basic Principles and Guidelines" (DGUV Information 213-851))


Safe Handling of Needles and Cannulae

  • Dispose of needles immediately in designated sharps containers without touching them.

  • Do not recap cannulae without using a proper tool.

🔹 Needle Safety Tips:

  • Avoid needle-stick injuries by using single-use items when possible.

  • Be aware of infection risks and potential exposure to hazardous materials.

  • Consider alternatives such as threaded tubes and hoses (e.g., PTFE or polyethylene tubing) when appropriate.

(Source: Working Safely in Laboratories – Basic Principles and Guidelines" (DGUV Information 213-851))


Additional Safety Resources

For more detailed laboratory safety guidelines, refer to: 📘 Working Safely in Laboratories - Basic Guidelines

By following these safety protocols, you help create a secure and efficient research environment for everyone. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact our safety team before your visit.

Stay safe and happy researching!