The Crucial Role of Ergonomics for Laboratory Equipment

Reliable results and safety are equally paramount in laboratory environments, yet one crucial factor often overlooked when procuring laboratory equipment is the science of Ergonomics.

Reliability, temperature accuracy, and sterilisation effectiveness often rightly dominate purchasing decisions for steam sterilisers, yet an ergonomically well-designed autoclave not only optimises workflow performance, but it can minimise physical and mental stress that may lead to fatigue and the potential for mistakes to be made.

Ignoring ergonomic principles in laboratory equipment selection can prove to be a costly mistake. Bad ergonomics can lead to repetitive strain injuries, chronic pain, and decreased work efficiency. Over time, poor ergonomics contribute to operator fatigue and could result in errors in critical procedures. Laboratories that prioritise good ergonomics not only help protect their employees but also increase operational effectiveness, reducing downtime and enhancing overall lab performance.

Operators of autoclaves frequently deal with heavy trays or containers when loading and unloading. A well-designed autoclave should have an accessible chamber height, allowing users to work comfortably without excessive bending or stretching. Lightweight, easy-to-slide, well-balanced and secure trays can greatly improve lab safety and reduce the risk of accidental spills or burns. 

Intuitive digital interfaces with touchscreens that can be operated whilst fully gloved, and programmable cycles that streamline operation with single push-button starts, greatly reduce cognitive load and decrease the likelihood of any errors occurring within the sterilisation process.

Minimal noise and heat emissions further help create a more focused and comfortable work environment.

Developing research and laboratory grade equipment for many decades, respected autoclave manufacturers Priorclave have a well-earned reputation globally for robust, reliable, ergonomic and easily programmable equipment that produces trustworthy results. 

Priorclave's loadlite electric hoist considerably reduces the risk of handling-related mishaps when loading or unloading vertical (top-loading) autoclaves. It enables users to safely lift loads of up to 25kg (55 lbs) with push-button ease. 

Priorclave offers a diverse and extensive range of autoclave designs tailored to various laboratory applications. Their lineup includes front-loading, top-loading, and pass-through autoclaves, each designed to meet specific sterilisation needs. These models vary in chamber size and heating methods, ensuring flexibility for different industries, from research labs to industrial settings.  

Beyond their extensive standard models, Priorclave specialises in custom-built autoclaves, allowing laboratories to configure sterilisation equipment to their users' specifications, ensuring the optimum ergonomics. Every autoclave is hand-built in their London factory, ensuring that features are precisely tailored to the user’s requirements. This approach not only ensures you achieve the very best performance from your autoclave, but it also helps reduce unnecessary features that may not be required, ultimately reducing its overall cost. 

Whichever Priorclave model of autoclave you select, you can be certain that it will be designed and can be tailored to suit your exact needs. To discover just how ergonomic and affordable a Priorclave autoclave can be, contact their sales team today or visit the website for more information or to discover your local distributor.