Laboratory Pipetting Defined
Many industries rely on the technique of laboratory pipetting. Medical labs use it for diagnostic purposes like blood tests and pathology reports. Biotech companies depend on it for genetic engineering, pharma for drug formulation, forensics for biological analysis, and the cosmetics industry for product formulation. The list goes on and on. But no matter the industry or application, lab pipetting can cause air quality problems if proper measures are not in place.
A pipette (pipet) is a laboratory instrument used to transfer and dispense precise fluid measurements. Quite literally, a pipette is defined as a narrow, “little pipe” that receives fluid drawn from a suction bulb or similar apparatus at the end of the tube. Glass or plastic versions usually measure fluids less than one milliliter. For liquid volumes less than .1 microliters, electronic versions are typically used.

How Pipetting Can Affect IAQ
The act of pipetting can generate tiny particles, fumes, and droplets. Because toxic and biohazardous substances are often used during this process, indoor air quality can be compromised. The two main ways that pipetting can affect IAQ in a laboratory setting are through aerosol generation and the release of VOCs.
Aerosol Generation. There are a variety of ways aerosols can be released into the air. Blending, centrifugation, and sonication can generate aerosols, as can rapid pipetting. Also, when using the pipette plunger (or bulb), the force can discharge mists and fumes.
Release of Volatile Organic Compounds. VOCs such as chloroform, ethanol, and acetone can be difficult to pipette, increasing the chance that toxic fumes escape, causing potentially dangerous emissions.
In both circumstances, the emissions can be inhaled by laboratory workers and while a small amount of chemical off-gassing may be relatively safe, it is harmful for those who are exposed long-term.
Health Risks from Laboratory Pipetting
Health problems resulting from harmful emissions from laboratory pipetting will depend on the substances released and the duration of exposure.
Short-term exposure to toxic chemicals can cause headaches, dizziness, vomiting, drowsiness, nausea, and eye, nose, and throat irritation.
Long-term exposure, on the other hand, can cause serious health problems, such as:
- Respiratory Issues
- Inhalation of chemical fumes can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract, asthma, or other chronic lung conditions.
- Neurological Effects
- Some fumes can affect the nervous system, leading to ongoing headaches, dizziness, or cognitive impairment.
- Organ Damage
- Prolonged exposure to certain fumes can cause damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys.
- Cancer
- In some situations, long-term exposure to toxic emissions can cause cancer and other diseases.
The Solution
To mitigate occupational risk stemming from laboratory pipetting, safety measures should include the use of personal protective equipment, proper airflow, and room ventilation. In addition, air cleaning equipment, such as fume extractors, should be in place to ensure that aerosols and mists are removed and replaced with clean air.
Laboratories that perform pipetting of toxic chemicals must protect their workers from harmful emissions by implementing a comprehensive indoor air quality plan. Consultation with an IAQ specialist is advised to help ensure facility and worker safety.
For over thirty years, AIRSInc has provided top-quality products for our laboratory customers’ air cleaning needs. We serve our clientele by providing IAQ products such as our Extract-All® SP987-2 Portable Air Cleaner.
Contact us today for a free air quality assessment with one of our skilled and experienced indoor environmental specialists.
The Effects of Laboratory Pipetting on Indoor Air Quality