Standard Operating Procedures for the Use and Maintenance of CO2 Incubators

1 Purpose
 
Establish standard operating procedures for the use and maintenance of CO2 incubators to ensure that operators use them correctly.
2 Scope
Suitable for the operation and maintenance of CO2 incubators.
3 Definitions
CO2 incubator is a device that simulates the growth environment of cells/tissues in organisms by creating a stable temperature (37 ° C), stable CO2 level (5%), constant pH (7.2-7.4), and high relative saturation humidity (95%) inside the incubator. It is an advanced instrument for culturing cells, tissues, and bacteria, and is a key equipment necessary for immunology, oncology, genetics, and bioengineering.
4 Responsibilities
Equipment users shall follow this SOP.
5 Programs
5.1 Instrument Structure
Carbon dioxide cultivation is composed of a carbon dioxide cylinder and a casing.
5.2 Operating Procedures for Use
5.2.1 Preparation
(1) When the pressure of the carbon dioxide cylinder decreases, purchase in advance and prepare spare parts.
(2) Prepare 2-3L of sterile water or saturated copper sulfate solution every two weeks.
5.2.2 Operation
(1) Confirm that the instrument and equipment are in the correct installation state, and that the power supply, carbon dioxide gas, and other connections are correct. Open the CO2 supply valve; Note that CO2 gas supply must be output from a pressure reducing valve and maintained at a pressure of 0.5-1 bar, not exceeding 1 bar.
(2) Start the program
Before starting, turn on the power switch and set the working parameters. (Note: The pressure sensing switch of the newly opened incubator can only work normally after 2-3 hours of power on!).
(3) Run the program, set the working parameters, and follow the required gas values and temperatures for the experiment, such as 37 ℃ and 5% CO2. After stabilization, the sample can be placed.
(4) Run the setup program.
5.3 Cleaning Operating Procedures
5.3.1 Wipe the stainless steel partition and inner container inside the incubator with 75% alcohol every month, and irradiate with a handheld ultraviolet lamp for 1 hour.
5.4 Maintenance Operation Procedures
5.4.1 The surface of the machine should be cleaned regularly and kept clean.
5.4.2 When not in use, close the program, turn off the gas cylinder, and turn off the power. When not in use for a long time, the power plug should be unplugged.
5.4.3 Cleaning/Sterilization of Boxes and Accessories (once a month).
5.4.4 Wipe all accessories with purified water, wipe dry with non-woven fabric or paper, and then spray with 75% alcohol for disinfection before wiping dry. Ensure that the corners and top of the inner container have been treated similarly, and then use a handheld UV lamp to irradiate for one hour.
5.4.5 Change water or saturated copper sulfate solution in the humidification tray (once every 2 weeks).
5.5 Fill in Records
Timely fill in the temperature and CO2 concentration records of the CO2 incubator.
5.6 Precautions
5.6.1 When the incubator is not in use for a long time, the power plug should be unplugged, the water or saturated copper sulfate solution in the tray should be poured out, the chamber should be cleaned, and the door should be closed after drying.
5.6.2 When picking up and delivering culture materials, it is advisable to avoid opening the door too wide and frequently opening and closing the incubator door to prevent significant fluctuations in CO2 concentration, temperature, and relative humidity.