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Cryogenic Sample Shipping

Category: Sample Shipping
Sub-category: Cryogenic work

This merit badge covers sample shipping to the centers.  Cryogenic samples require special handling.

Background

To transport frozen cryoEM Grids for data collection they must remain at cryogenic temperatures for the duration of shipment. The most effective way to do this us using a Dry Shipper (Extended Time Cryogenic Refrigerator). Here we help you get your grids safely to a national center so that we can use them for data collection.

A review on preparing shipments to facilities for data collection. (see sections 5 & 7).

Tips for dewar testing and maintainance.

Safety

This merit badge is focused particularly on safely shipping frozen grids to the centers.

SOPs

SOPs for sample shipping.

  • SOP – Sample Shipping

Relevant Safety Data Sheets:

A pass/fail test

The knowledge assessment test primarily covering a safety quiz will be given and may be updated regularly. If a user has earned the merit badge and policies have been updated, then an updated information sheet would have to be reviewed ahead of doing cryogenic work at the center.

Center staff training

The workflow demonstration should be scheduled with center staff through the NCCAT User Office or your appointed user coordinator.

PNCC

NYSBC/SMEC/NCCAT SOPs

Supervised and unsupervised practice by the user

Center staff will assist in arranging dedicated time slots for access to the necessary equipment. Registered users will be issued scheduler accounts through the NCCAT User Office.

Two (2) separate center staff observing your proficiency at separate times

Center staff will assist in arranging dedicated time slots for access to the necessary equipment. Appointments may be made through the NCCAT User Office.

Additional information:

Recertification period

  • Merit badges for cryogenic work are valid for .
  • Recertification (to maintain active status) requires re-review of SOPs and practical demonstration with one center staff member.

Furthering your knowledge

General background on safety