Preparing for Lab Sessions
Lecturers and instructors request lab assistants to prepare the laboratory in advance before the lesson starts. They perform this duty by reading the experimental procedure and any additional information given by the lab manager or instructor. Assistants must complete the online lab safety training program before starting to work. They must also adhere to the prescribed lab dress code, such as wearing a white coat and closed shoes, while working.
As a student lab assistant, it's important to ask for any clarification regarding the lab procedure. This helps the assistant and lab manager anticipate questions the students will ask during the lesson.
Assistants set up any laboratory equipment needed for the experiment, such as microscopes, test tubes and calibrated glass flasks. They also prepare simple reagents regularly used during lab procedures and ensure the lab is stocked with the necessary supplies. This includes monitoring all of the supplies used in the lab and restocking them as needed.
Cleaning the Lab
Carrying out experiments in a safe environment reduces the likelihood of accidents occurring. One of the integral duties performed by student lab assistants is securing the lab. This is done by cleaning up any spills and washing the equipment and glassware, such as conical flasks, pipettes, and beakers used by students.
Assistants also ensure that all caps and tops of reagent bottles are firmly fastened to prevent spills or leakage. They also put back all the reagents and equipment in the designated place after the lesson ends. Other duties of a lab assistant in engineering colleges, for example, may re-calibrating equipment between lab sections.
Promoting Safety
Accidents in a laboratory may lead to injuries, lost lives, and property damage. A student lab assistant ensures that students do not practice any unsafe behaviors in the lab. They lock up all the reagents and unplug all electrical equipment to minimize the chances of accidents and fires.
Assistants show the students how to handle chemical spills, dispose of broken glassware and get rid of non-hazardous and chemical waste safely. They also ensure that students adhere to the lab dress code and wear protective gear, such as safety goggles, during experiments.
Assisting in Experiments
Student lab technicians work closely with students during lab lessons and guide them through experiments. They walk around the lab and answer questions students have concerning the process. This means assistants must read all of the guidelines provided by the lecturer or instructor before the lesson commences.
Performing Administrative Duties
Researchers rely on student lab technicians for assistance with the day-to-day operations of the lab. Administrative duties can include ordering supplies, running errands, picking up supplies, filing documents, answering the phone, sorting mail, and updating databases. Working in a marine biology lab, for example, may also involve scheduling and giving tours to the public.
