Option 2

Option 2. It minimizes the risk of contamination, allowing for accurate and reliable results by preventing growth from unwanted microorganisms

Dr. Spencer: That’s right. The primary aim of aseptic technique is to prevent contamination of your samples. This ensures that any observations you make in your experiments are accurate and solely due to the organisms under study. Aseptic technique also ensures that lab personnel are not inadvertently infected with any pathogens. 

You: Since we’re handling microorganisms, does this not require biosafety level 2 precautions, Dr. Spencer? 

Dr. Spencer: Very good! it’s vital to adhere to specific safety protocols. That includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like safety goggles, gloves, closed-toe shoes, and laboratory coats. 

Sam: I understand. Can you tell me a bit more about the laboratory set-up to ensure safety?

Dr. Spencer: Of course. The lab has non-porous surfaces for easy decontamination and necessary safety equipment like a hand-washing sink, an eye-wash station, and secure, lockable doors.

You: I also see biohazard signs where cultures are handled or stored. 

Sam: That’s right; we also remembered to keep our personal belongings outside the work areas to prevent contamination.

Dr. Spencer: Well-done! In regards to handling biological material, follow aseptic techniques like using sterilized tools and minimize the time containers remain open. Disinfectants should be used to disinfect surfaces before and after your work. Additionally, we use disposable loops or Bunsen burners to minimize contamination risks.

Sam: How should we manage waste in the lab?

You: Discarded materials must go into clearly marked containers for proper decontamination. An autoclave or licensed waste removal service is then used to dispose of these materials.

Dr. Spencer: And let’s not forget, wash your hands when entering and leaving the lab, tie back long hair, avoid touching your face, and keep food or drinks out of the lab.

Sam: Thanks, Dr. Spencer. These guidelines really help clarify how I can ensure both safety and accuracy in my work.

Dr. Spencer: You’re welcome, Sam. Let’s go on with the investigation, then!

[pH and aseptic technique. Maintaining the right pH is important in cellular function; it helps maintain the correct protein structure and thus preserves cellular function. However, this is not relevant to aseptic technique.

Inhibition of causative agent growth by contaminating microorganisms. While preventing contamination of the sample is important in aseptic technique, contamination does not necessarily mean that the contaminating microorganisms would inhibit the growth of the causative agent. Aseptic technique ensures reliable results by preventing growth of other contaminating microorganisms.]