Glovebox handling rules
Rule 1. Safety first
Always keep an eye out for potential hazards. Many of the following rules have implications for this. Read them thoroughly and make sure to understand these implications.
The safety implications of the subsequent rules are highlighted in a quote format like this sentence.
Rule 2. Only trained staff touches the glovebox
Operating a glovebox is fairly simple but there are some ground rules that are absolutely crucial that you follow. Even when you are properly trained, always get an introduction in a new workplace. Many tasks that are part of handling a glovebox require agreements with the local colleagues which you will need to be aware of.
Untrained handling of a glovebox is dangerous to the user and can cause fire or equipment damage.
Rule 3. Keep the argon supply stocked
5 bar are needed for proper operation. You will want to change the cylinder in a rest pressure range of 5-15 bar. Leaving the lab for the day, ensure that at least 15 bar are present and roughly an extra 10 bar per day of absence (30 for weekends, over 100 for vacation periods of a week). This is to ensure that minor leaks that you may not hear or detect drain the gas supply.
Undetected leaks can allow air to enter the glovebox when the argon supply runs out which can ignite highly reactive chemicals stored in the box.
Rule 4. Weekly walk-by
In labs with infrequent use and especially in vacation periods, you may find your glovebox unused for weeks at a time. Always aim to check on the glovebox at a week. A quick walk-by ensuring proper argon levels and O2 and H2O levels usually suffices as long as you keep track of further maintenance intervals. Make sure that the walk-by check is performed even in vacation periods.
Leaks or reactions inside the glovebox can introduce or liberate moisture and oxygen, again posing a fire hazard.
Rule 5. Cleanliness
The box is a shared workspace. Make sure that you leave it clean and safe at all times. Never leave open needles, broken glass ware or glass shards in the box. This can lead to injuries and leaks posing fire hazards. Clean the balance and remove unnecessary clutter. The gloves are bulky, someone will sooner or later break something if the work area in the front part of the box is cluttered.
Clutter in the glovebox causes immediate (sharp edges) and indirect (increased accident risk) hazards for hand injuries and fire hazards through potential glove damage introducing moisture and oxygen.
Rule 6. Keep the glovebox stocked
Make sure to never run empty on any regular stock equipment in the box. Preparation of materials and their introduction to the box takes time and it can affect the whole group’s schedule if someone finds out too late that they lack equipment for their work. Check with your group on the list of items that are considered common goods and on your refilling protocols. If you notice any of them running low, place a healthy amount in the designated spot (bench or oven) for the next user to introduce them. Inform the person in charge if their support is needed for more complex refilling tasks.
Rule 7. Keep the glovebox empty
Do not treat the glovebox as drawer. Regularly remove chemicals and equipment that is not needed anymore. It is your responsibility to keep your own chemicals and equipment in the box to a minimum. Pyrophoric samples and samples releasing toxins in contact with air are reasonably stored in the glovebox. Samples of finished projects should be sealed in vials that are fixed with electrical tape. Additionally, you may place them in a plastic zip lock bag or in tight plastic containers. Properly label this container according to local law and be sure to add “Stored under argon”, your name, and the packaging date. This container can be safely stored in a standard lab safety cabinet, fridge, or freezer over extended periods of time. Bring them back to the glovebox if you need access.
Rule 8. Hygiene
Clean the gloves after use. A spraybottle with isopropanol and a tissue can be used to keep the gloves clean and disinfected. Clean the glass pane of the glovebox as well if required.
Rule 9. Keep log
Make sure that your log book entries are in order. Following the O2 and H2O values is crucial for detecting potential problems and for gauging regeneration or catalyst exchange needs. Following the argon supply pressure is crucial for detecting leaks.
Rule 10. Honor the schedule
A glovebox can be the tool that makes or breaks progress in your chemistry. Making the most out of a glovebox can massively impact the productivity of your whole group. Hand over the box on time and in order. Please be on time particularly when a group member made a reservation. We handle a complex pipeline of high-tech machines and it can be absolutely crucial to be on time with certain experimental procedures to ensure smooth progress through the whole experiment.
Rule 11. Update standard operating procedures
Research is flexible and while most groups have well established standard operating procedures, the daily demands can often dramatically change depending on the phases of ongoing projects. Try to be a proactive member and discuss with people in charge on changed requirements so that you can keep standard operating procedures up to date. This ensures safe and efficient progress for everyone. Outdated procedures create more work for everyone down the line, especially when training new coworkers.
