Employing the standardised Artel method, these training seminars develop operator pipetting proficiency and consistency to minimise laboratory liquid handling error and improve data quality
Artel announces three new pipetting technique seminars to address laboratory needs for training and objective evaluation and documentation of personnel skills in low-volume liquid handling.
"Pipetting technique is a major source of liquid handling error, yet most laboratories lack formal programs to train technicians and scientists on proper technique," says Wendy Vaccaro, technical services manager, Artel.
"With intensified regulatory scrutiny and personnel shortages, life science laboratories are consuming skills training at a fast pace.
"Artel's standardised services are unique in offering measurable improvement in pipetting proficiency, and we have added additional training seminars to satisfy the growing demand".
Artel offers two levels of pipetting proficiency certification to help laboratories mitigate operator variability and standardise pipetting technique.
The first level is a one-day seminar designed for laboratorians who use pipettes in their daily tasks.
This seminar provides certification in single-channel and multi-channel pipetting proficiency, and covers pipette repair and maintenance.
Artel also offers pipette quality management certification, a more vigorous two-day training seminar for laboratory managers.
In addition to topics covered in the first level of training, participants are educated on regulatory requirements, establishing internal liquid handling quality assurance programs, diagnosing pipette failures, and calibration technologies.
Artel's 2008 pipetting technique training seminar schedule includes:.
March 20, Somerset, NJ - Pipetting Proficiency Certification (Level 1).
June 23-24, Westbrook, ME, and October 16-17, Westbrook, ME - Pipette Quality Management Certification (Level 2).
The Artel method of training is a robust, scientifically based, standardized teaching approach that includes a pre-skills assessment of pipetting technique, education about the impact of poor pipetting skills on laboratory results, hands-on technique coaching with immediate feedback, and a post-training skills assessment.
The Artel method also includes instruction on how pipettes fail, ergonomics, and best practices for determining calibration frequencies and setting tolerances.
Participants who pass both the written and practical exams receive an official Artel Certificate of Proficiency.
The seminars employ the Artel PCS (pipette calibration system) for quick and effective evaluation of operator pipetting proficiency.
The PCS provides Nist-traceable measurements of volume accuracy and precision and verifies volume in minutes, supplying instant and objective feedback on proper technique.
The PCS also automatically documents results, providing attendees with proof of course completion to satisfy regulatory requirements.
Artel also offers technique training at customer laboratory locations.
These training seminars are tailored to the specific needs of each laboratory and can be scheduled throughout the year on request.
