What should be prioritized during a power outage in the lab?

During a power outage in the lab, prioritizing the safety of samples and equipment is critical. This is because power outages can lead to temperature fluctuations in storage devices, such as refrigerators or freezers, which could compromise the integrity of biological samples, chemicals, or sensitive equipment. Ensuring that these items remain secure and do not suffer damage due to the lack of electricity should be the foremost concern.

It is essential to assess the situation, including checking backup systems or alternative power sources if available, to protect valuable materials. This approach also includes properly shutting down any equipment that may pose risks if left unattended or operational without power.

Other approaches, such as ignoring the outage, rushing to finish pending experiments, or continuing work as if nothing had changed, could not only jeopardize the safety of materials and equipment but could also present hazards to lab personnel. By focusing on safety during an outage, you mitigate risks and uphold the integrity of ongoing research and experiments.