Volume 37 Number 2 June 2018 Editor: Jessica Boys- 4 - Labline s Vol 37 No. 2 June 2018 Thank you! You are awesome! different school and I put her name as a reference in my resume

Newsletter of the Laboratory Technicians’ Association of VictoriaS3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122Print Post Approved Print Post Publication Number PP 381667 / 00311ISSN Number 08190879

Volume 37 Number 2 June 2018 Editor: Jessica Boys

LABORATORY TECHNICIANS’ ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA

LTAV Website www.ltav.org.au

LTAV has a new postal address as of January 2018

Please make your accounts department aware of this change.

Laboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria S3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150 Hawthorn, Victoria 3122

LOOK OUT FOR OUR NEW ADDRESS!

It has long been recognised that a new technician’s first year in education can be very difficult. LTAV has decided to support beginning technicians by offering

FREE first year LTAV membership

deemed to be paid by the LTAV Committee.

The following conditions apply: a. The payment is at the discretion of the committee and will apply for the course of each membership year, b. The payment is to be made only on behalf of technicians in their first year working in education. c. Members who are given this benefit are expected to continue their membership in subsequent years. d. Such members will have all the rights and obligations of ordinary members, but in accepting the payment also agree not to run for office during that same first year

Please refer all interest and enquiries to:

[email protected]

ATTENTION NEW LAB TECHS

Front Cover: Photo taken by our very own Kerry Whitelegg, Laboratory Technician at Mildura Secondary College, and featured on Prime 7 News Weather, Monday 28 May 2018.

Lablines Vol 37 No. 2 June 2018

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Contents

President’s Report 3 Thank You! You Are Awesome! 4

In the News 5

The Big Move: Designing, Building and Moving Labs 6

LABCON 2018 10

Peter Ellis Scholarship 11

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Waste with Michael Pola 13 A Week in the Life of a Lab Tech 17

List Laughs and Life Hacks 19 Brain Break 21

10 of the Best 21

Did you know? 22

LTAV Publications 23

Membership Form 24

Regional Representatives for 2018 25

Committee Members for 2018 26

COPYRIGHT REMINDER

Deadline for next Lablines 2018

17th August 2018

Articles for publishing in “Lablines” should not have been published elsewhere excepting that, all articles submitted for republication, and any published material quoted in any article, be accompanied by a signed release from the COPYRIGHT holder. LTAV retains COPYRIGHT on articles that are published in “Lablines”. Written applications for noncommercial release should be addressed to editor: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER The views expressed are in “Lablines” are not necessarily the opinions of the committee. There is no responsibility taken for the results of any experiments published in “Lablines” and replicated elsewhere. Risk assessments should be carried out before attempting same.

Deadline for next Lablines 201817th August 2018

COPYRIGHT REMINDERArticles for publishing in “Lablines” should not have been published elsewhere excepting that, all articles submitted for republication, and any published material quoted in any article, be accompanied by a signed release from the COPYRIGHT holder. LTAV retains COPYRIGHT on articles that are published in “Lablines”. Written applications for noncommercial release should be addressed to editor: [email protected]

DISCLAIMERThe views expressed are in “Lablines” are not necessarily the opinions of the committee.There is no responsibility taken for the results of any experiments published in “Lablines” and replicated elsewhere. Risk assessments should be carried out before attempting same.

LTAV has a new postal address as of January 2018

Please make your accounts department aware of this change.

Laboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria S3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150 Hawthorn, Victoria 3122

LOOK OUT FOR OUR NEW ADDRESS!

It has long been recognised that a new technician’s first year in education can be very difficult. LTAV has decided to support beginning technicians by offering

FREE first year LTAV membership

deemed to be paid by the LTAV Committee.

The following conditions apply: a. The payment is at the discretion of the committee and will apply for the course of each membership year, b. The payment is to be made only on behalf of technicians in their first year working in education. c. Members who are given this benefit are expected to continue their membership in subsequent years. d. Such members will have all the rights and obligations of ordinary members, but in accepting the payment also agree not to run for office during that same first year

Please refer all interest and enquiries to:

[email protected]

ATTENTION NEW LAB TECHS

Front Cover: Photo taken by our very own Kerry Whitelegg, Laboratory Technician at Mildura Secondary College, and featured on Prime 7 News Weather, Monday 28 May 2018.

Lablines Vol 37 No. 1 March 2018

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President’s Report Marcia Rogerson LTAV President

The LTAV Committee have been hard at work over the past two terms organising LABCON 2018. Each year the committee reviews, evaluates and examines the feedback forms that you have submitted. This allows the committee to determine which sessions, keynote speakers, tours and even catering that YOU want at LABCON. After all, it is YOUR conference. Thank you to the LTAV Committee and Marg Scarlett, our

Conference Organiser, for your work so far. Each year, LTAV offer two scholarships to attend LABCON. You will find details on how to apply for this year’s Peter Ellis Scholarships in this edition of Lablines or on the LTAV website. CONASTA 67 is coming up from 8 - 11 July in Sydney. The ASTA website states that the ‘Spotlight on Our Future’ theme has been chosen "to inspire all educators to focus on the influence of science on our lives” and that the conference “will celebrate the successes of science, particularly Australian science, and will explore the vital role of science in our future.” Have you started planning for National Science Week, yet? The theme this year is Game Changers and Change Makers and it runs from 11 - 19, August. Don’t forget to email your awesome pictures of student projects or an innovative morning tea to our Lablines Editor, Jessica Boys. I would like to encourage you to share your creative ideas in Lablines and on our new LTAV webpage. The LTAV webpage is under construction so please be patient while this is occurring. There may be

periods where you will not be able to access the website. However, once completed, you can expect a wonderful, informative site with pictures from LABCON, Regional laboratory technician meetings, and articles relevant to school laboratories. I would also like to let you know that I have accepted a position as Laboratory Manager in a school in London for 12 months. I shall be stepping down from the position of LTAV President at the end of August, but you will hear from me again before then! LTAV Vice President, Suzanne Thornley, will become President for the remainder of the year. I would like to wish her all the best and am sure she will do a marvellous job. I am looking forward to the challenge in my new school and the opportunity to learn. The 2018/2019 school year in the UK commences 3rd September, which will be the start of autumn. I will be experiencing two winters and two autumns in one year! Lastly, I want to thank all the laboratory technicians who contribute articles for Lablines. Your wealth of knowledge is invaluable to new laboratory technicians in education and inspires us “oldies” too.

Membership to LTAV is open to laboratory technical staff in all levels of educational institutions in Victoria. Registration is annual and the membership fee is $44. Registration and payment for a full

year of membership (1st January to 31st December) is due at the end of April each year.

Benefits of being a LTAV member include: Subscription to the quarterly Lablines Magazine

Discounted registration fees for LABCON Voting rights at the Annual General Meeting at LABCON

To become an LTAV member, visit our website www.ltav.org.au to register online or

download the application for membership form.

Send enquiries to:

[email protected]

LTAV MEMBERSHIP

- 3 -


President’s Report Marcia Rogerson LTAV President

The LTAV Committee have been hard at work over the past two terms organising LABCON 2018. Each year the committee reviews, evaluates and examines the feedback forms that you have submitted. This allows the committee to determine which sessions, keynote speakers, tours and even catering that YOU want at LABCON. After all, it is YOUR conference. Thank you to the LTAV Committee and Marg Scarlett, our

Conference Organiser, for your work so far. Each year, LTAV offer two scholarships to attend LABCON. You will find details on how to apply for this year’s Peter Ellis Scholarships in this edition of Lablines or on the LTAV website. CONASTA 67 is coming up from 8 - 11 July in Sydney. The ASTA website states that the ‘Spotlight on Our Future’ theme has been chosen "to inspire all educators to focus on the influence of science on our lives” and that the conference “will celebrate the successes of science, particularly Australian science, and will explore the vital role of science in our future.” Have you started planning for National Science Week, yet? The theme this year is Game Changers and Change Makers and it runs from 11 - 19, August. Don’t forget to email your awesome pictures of student projects or an innovative morning tea to our Lablines Editor, Jessica Boys. I would like to encourage you to share your creative ideas in Lablines and on our new LTAV webpage. The LTAV webpage is under construction so please be patient while this is occurring. There may be

periods where you will not be able to access the website. However, once completed, you can expect a wonderful, informative site with pictures from LABCON, Regional laboratory technician meetings, and articles relevant to school laboratories. I would also like to let you know that I have accepted a position as Laboratory Manager in a school in London for 12 months. I shall be stepping down from the position of LTAV President at the end of August, but you will hear from me again before then! LTAV Vice President, Suzanne Thornley, will become President for the remainder of the year. I would like to wish her all the best and am sure she will do a marvellous job. I am looking forward to the challenge in my new school and the opportunity to learn. The 2018/2019 school year in the UK commences 3rd September, which will be the start of autumn. I will be experiencing two winters and two autumns in one year! Lastly, I want to thank all the laboratory technicians who contribute articles for Lablines. Your wealth of knowledge is invaluable to new laboratory technicians in education and inspires us “oldies” too.

Membership to LTAV is open to laboratory technical staff in all levels of educational institutions in Victoria. Registration is annual and the membership fee is $44. Registration and payment for a full

year of membership (1st January to 31st December) is due at the end of April each year.

Benefits of being a LTAV member include: Subscription to the quarterly Lablines Magazine

Discounted registration fees for LABCON Voting rights at the Annual General Meeting at LABCON

To become an LTAV member, visit our website www.ltav.org.au to register online or

download the application for membership form.

Send enquiries to:

[email protected]

LTAV MEMBERSHIP

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Thank you! You are awesome!

Mary jOnes KeILOR DOWNS COLLEGE I would like to recognise Mary Jones From Keilor Downs College. It was my first time working as a lab tech I was very nervous and made many mistakes, but Mary was very patient and understanding. I truly believe that she is the angel that God has put in my way to help me. Mary even helped me with my key selection criteria questions when I applied for a new position at a different school and I put her name as a reference in my resume. Lana Thomas. or transforming Lablines from a good publication to a great colourful read! Well Sue Treloar, Tanya Reimers, Leonie Leishman, Jodie Pignataro, Amanda Gluyas, Janet Butt, Suzanne Thornley, Era Gonzales, Glenda Merrilees, Christina Giarrusso, Chanda, Sook Wei Cosby, Janelle Gehling, Louisa Anderson, Karen Newlan, Tane Bragg, Geoff Gleadall. Gosh...everyone is amazing really! Oleen Carlow.

AMANDA GLUYAS MENTONE GRAMMAR Amanda Gluyas took the time to call me when I posted a query on the List. She could see I was confused and very patiently explained my question, including worked calculations, which led to a successful prac. Melinda Zwetsloot.

Please send a sentence or short paragraph to: [email protected]

Ever had a Lab Tech do something super nice for you? Ever seen a Lab Tech do something awesome, far beyond their call of duty?

This is your chance to say

Thank you!

and to recognise those Lab Techs who you think are

awesome!

- 4 -


Thank you! You are awesome!

Mary jOnes KeILOR DOWNS COLLEGE I would like to recognise Mary Jones From Keilor Downs College. It was my first time working as a lab tech I was very nervous and made many mistakes, but Mary was very patient and understanding. I truly believe that she is the angel that God has put in my way to help me. Mary even helped me with my key selection criteria questions when I applied for a new position at a different school and I put her name as a reference in my resume. Lana Thomas. or transforming Lablines from a good publication to a great colourful read! Well Sue Treloar, Tanya Reimers, Leonie Leishman, Jodie Pignataro, Amanda Gluyas, Janet Butt, Suzanne Thornley, Era Gonzales, Glenda Merrilees, Christina Giarrusso, Chanda, Sook Wei Cosby, Janelle Gehling, Louisa Anderson, Karen Newlan, Tane Bragg, Geoff Gleadall. Gosh...everyone is amazing really! Oleen Carlow.

AMANDA GLUYAS MENTONE GRAMMAR Amanda Gluyas took the time to call me when I posted a query on the List. She could see I was confused and very patiently explained my question, including worked calculations, which led to a successful prac. Melinda Zwetsloot.

Please send a sentence or short paragraph to: [email protected]

Ever had a Lab Tech do something super nice for you? Ever seen a Lab Tech do something awesome, far beyond their call of duty?

This is your chance to say

Thank you!

and to recognise those Lab Techs who you think are

awesome!


In the News Do yourself a favour and Google ‘APOPO’.

APOPO are a non-profit organisation who have partnered with Tanzania’s Sokoine University to develop ‘detection rats’. Yes, you read it right, detection rats. More specifically, African giant pouched rats (Cricetomys ansorgei) that have been trained to detect the smell of TNT in land mines.

APOPO have been using their HeroRATs to remove land mines in Cambodia, Angola, Zimbabwe, Colombia, Mozambique, Vietnam, Lao PDR and Thailand. The rats are trained, using food rewards, to systematically search up and down a set area and scratch at the ground when they detect the scent of explosives. They are incredibly efficient, faster than conventional methods and light enough that pressure-activated mines are not activated when they walk over them.

More recently, however, APOPO have collaborated with a zoonotic disease

scientist, Georgies Mgode and made headlines training a new group of HeroRATs to be able to detect, wait for it, Tuberculosis (TB). APOPO’s rats are successfully detecting the scent of the bacterium that is responsible for TB in patient phlegm samples. After 9 months of training, HeroRATs are able to scan 100 samples in less than 20 minutes. APOPO have been in the news this last month as they try to gain wider acceptance of their method of TB

detection and diagnosis. Mgode has proven that HeroRATs are a far more accurate detection system than the current microscopic method, with HeroRATs picking up many TB infected samples that microscopy has missed. Will the World Health Organisation allow our rodent friends to become an approved method of TB diagnosis? Guess we will have to wait and see.

PICTURE: An APOPO Worker feeding a HeroRAT.

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PICTURE: Horsham College’s new Chemistry classroom

PICTURE: Horsham College’s new Prep Room

The Big Move Jodie Pignataro Science Technician

Horsham College

ell, we have finally moved into our new school (as long as you don’t count the 20 or

so science boxes still in long term storage). It is all shiny and new, with lots of lovely open space. The school has several new buildings, some revamped portables, an existing gym, music building and reception building with classrooms, hospitality, electronics and furnishings. The arts/science building has art, science, photography, general classrooms and a media room. Science consists of four classrooms and one massive prep room. The prep room has a storage room, a locked restricted chemical storage room and access to all science classrooms. The

classrooms are Physics, Chemistry, Biology and a general science classroom. Senior equipment is kept in the relevant science room and multiple use equipment is stored in the prep room.

That is the general information, but this is about what to keep an eye out for when getting your own new science building. I do not want to get too specific, so I will try to be fairly generic where I can. Be aware that the architect’s objectives will be different to yours and try to keep communication lines open! They put looks and design first, and you will put practicality, safety and functionality as your major concerns. Take notes at any meetings you attend for future reference. Do not assume that just because something is on the original plan that it will actually eventuate, as plans can change. Try to make sure that any changes are discussed with, at the very least, the Science Head. Make sure you are very clear and insistent on things that you need to make the science department run smoothly. Things like extraction in the classrooms and prep room, size and placement of sinks that are user friendly in the prep room (i.e. large

W

Designing, Refurbishing and Moving Labs

- 7 -


PICTURE: Horsham College’s new Physica classroom

enough that you can fit equipment in to wash), placement of gas taps next to water for distillation pracs/demos and even height of ceilings. Pace out measurements from the plan, as sometimes it looks fine on paper but when it comes to actually putting a desk/fridge somewhere, it may not be practical. Plenty of storage is a must, not just open space (which looks great but is not useful). It is amazing how quickly you fill it up. Be willing to give certain things up (do you really need hot water to all classrooms?), so that you might be able to afford things

that you do need (those extra gas taps). Be content to concentrate on your prep room and let the teachers worry about the layout of the classrooms as that is where they will be spending most of their time. Make sure all safety equipment is practical and installed correctly in suitable places, including fire extinguishers and fire blankets for all science classrooms and prep rooms. Keep in mind that Australian standards for science laboratories are different to the building codes. If

possible, try to have input into the type of fume hoods that are installed, as some are better than others, and make sure they get certified after they are installed. Realistically you won’t get everything you want so you need to prioritise. Generally your principal will be the voice for the school, so make sure that you meet with them as well as the Science Head. If the principal has a clear picture of the needs of the science department and the reasons behind them, they will be the best person to communicate with the architect. Your ideas may differ from others, so you need evidence of why you think something is important. Be happy to listen to ideas as they may be things you hadn’t thought of, and be willing to compromise. You need to be flexible and sometimes change the way you do things to fit into the new environment, but you should never compromise on your safety. To anyone planning a new science building, I wish you a terrific outcome and hope everything goes as planned. If you wish to visit our new school, you are quite welcome, or you can ring or email if you have any questions that you think I might be able to assist with. Good Luck!

Miranda Ford Laboratory Technician

Oxley College, NSW Oxley College is a relatively young school, founded in 1983 and situated in the picturesque setting of the Southern Highlands of NSW. Like most things from the 1980s, the laboratories are now sadly outdated and in need of their first renovations. It is an exciting experience to be a part of, as I am often asked for my input and ideas on how best to manage the relatively small space we have. One of the first ideas was to extend the fourth lab at the end of the building into an empty space that has

previously been used for lockers and not much else. A small adjoining classroom would also be extended and made into a lab. Currently we only have four labs, so the addition of a fifth lab is much needed as Science classes are often timetabled into non-Science rooms. This can be inconvenient when trying to organise practical classes, especially when there are five or six Science classes running concurrently.

The four laboratories all currently have the same layout, as seen in the first photo which shows our Biology lab. There are seven benches around the perimeters of each lab, with the fourth lab having eight benches to

accommodate larger classes. Each bench has two gas taps, along with general equipment stored in two groups under each. Glassware is stored in a separate cupboard elsewhere in the room. Our Head of Science wants to change this layout, and some of her ideas include island benches, which combine student work and practical areas as seen in Horsham College’s Chemistry classroom. Another idea was to have one continuous practical bench around the perimeter of the room, in a sort of U-shape. I was asked for my opinion on these and I put it out to the List Serve. Having previously worked in a school lab with U-shaped benches, and with the agreement

- 6 -


PICTURE: Horsham College’s new Chemistry classroom

PICTURE: Horsham College’s new Prep Room

The Big Move Jodie Pignataro Science Technician

Horsham College

ell, we have finally moved into our new school (as long as you don’t count the 20 or

so science boxes still in long term storage). It is all shiny and new, with lots of lovely open space. The school has several new buildings, some revamped portables, an existing gym, music building and reception building with classrooms, hospitality, electronics and furnishings. The arts/science building has art, science, photography, general classrooms and a media room. Science consists of four classrooms and one massive prep room. The prep room has a storage room, a locked restricted chemical storage room and access to all science classrooms. The

classrooms are Physics, Chemistry, Biology and a general science classroom. Senior equipment is kept in the relevant science room and multiple use equipment is stored in the prep room.

That is the general information, but this is about what to keep an eye out for when getting your own new science building. I do not want to get too specific, so I will try to be fairly generic where I can. Be aware that the architect’s objectives will be different to yours and try to keep communication lines open! They put looks and design first, and you will put practicality, safety and functionality as your major concerns. Take notes at any meetings you attend for future reference. Do not assume that just because something is on the original plan that it will actually eventuate, as plans can change. Try to make sure that any changes are discussed with, at the very least, the Science Head. Make sure you are very clear and insistent on things that you need to make the science department run smoothly. Things like extraction in the classrooms and prep room, size and placement of sinks that are user friendly in the prep room (i.e. large

W

Designing, Refurbishing and Moving Labs

- 7 -


PICTURE: Horsham College’s new Physica classroom

enough that you can fit equipment in to wash), placement of gas taps next to water for distillation pracs/demos and even height of ceilings. Pace out measurements from the plan, as sometimes it looks fine on paper but when it comes to actually putting a desk/fridge somewhere, it may not be practical. Plenty of storage is a must, not just open space (which looks great but is not useful). It is amazing how quickly you fill it up. Be willing to give certain things up (do you really need hot water to all classrooms?), so that you might be able to afford things

that you do need (those extra gas taps). Be content to concentrate on your prep room and let the teachers worry about the layout of the classrooms as that is where they will be spending most of their time. Make sure all safety equipment is practical and installed correctly in suitable places, including fire extinguishers and fire blankets for all science classrooms and prep rooms. Keep in mind that Australian standards for science laboratories are different to the building codes. If

possible, try to have input into the type of fume hoods that are installed, as some are better than others, and make sure they get certified after they are installed. Realistically you won’t get everything you want so you need to prioritise. Generally your principal will be the voice for the school, so make sure that you meet with them as well as the Science Head. If the principal has a clear picture of the needs of the science department and the reasons behind them, they will be the best person to communicate with the architect. Your ideas may differ from others, so you need evidence of why you think something is important. Be happy to listen to ideas as they may be things you hadn’t thought of, and be willing to compromise. You need to be flexible and sometimes change the way you do things to fit into the new environment, but you should never compromise on your safety. To anyone planning a new science building, I wish you a terrific outcome and hope everything goes as planned. If you wish to visit our new school, you are quite welcome, or you can ring or email if you have any questions that you think I might be able to assist with. Good Luck!

Miranda Ford Laboratory Technician

Oxley College, NSW Oxley College is a relatively young school, founded in 1983 and situated in the picturesque setting of the Southern Highlands of NSW. Like most things from the 1980s, the laboratories are now sadly outdated and in need of their first renovations. It is an exciting experience to be a part of, as I am often asked for my input and ideas on how best to manage the relatively small space we have. One of the first ideas was to extend the fourth lab at the end of the building into an empty space that has

previously been used for lockers and not much else. A small adjoining classroom would also be extended and made into a lab. Currently we only have four labs, so the addition of a fifth lab is much needed as Science classes are often timetabled into non-Science rooms. This can be inconvenient when trying to organise practical classes, especially when there are five or six Science classes running concurrently.

The four laboratories all currently have the same layout, as seen in the first photo which shows our Biology lab. There are seven benches around the perimeters of each lab, with the fourth lab having eight benches to

accommodate larger classes. Each bench has two gas taps, along with general equipment stored in two groups under each. Glassware is stored in a separate cupboard elsewhere in the room. Our Head of Science wants to change this layout, and some of her ideas include island benches, which combine student work and practical areas as seen in Horsham College’s Chemistry classroom. Another idea was to have one continuous practical bench around the perimeter of the room, in a sort of U-shape. I was asked for my opinion on these and I put it out to the List Serve. Having previously worked in a school lab with U-shaped benches, and with the agreement

- 8 -


PICTURE: Oxley College’s current Biology classroom

PICTURE: Science Classroom, Marist College, Bendigo (Karen Egan’s School)

of other lab techs on the list, I advised against this layout as students all have their backs to the teacher and it is more difficult to see what is going on. It also limits the width of the practical bench. Although I had reservations at first about the suggestion of island benches (practical work and desk work would be on the same bench, thereby increasing the risk of contamination, not to mention the possibility of students playing with gas taps during theory classes) it seems to be the most logical solution since we are working with very limited space. Besides, with our current layout, students already take their laptops and books to the practical benches to collect results. As the possibility of playing with taps could be a concern, I forwarded my Head of Science a photo from Karen Egan’s school of another possible layout, the third photo. Brilliant! This could be a goer, thanks Karen!

So, apart from throwing around some ideas, we have had a visit from an interior designer on two occasions. Measurements have been taken and photos of ideas have been given to her. At this point, this is as far as we have gone in our renovation journey. I have worked at other schools that

have undergone renovations on old labs, and although it is a huge task to move everything out and back in again, it is well worth it. Unfortunately, the renovations of those labs involved changing the porous wooden benches to another porous material that, although looked nice, eventually absorbed the chemical stains! The floors were the same, so materials for both need to be researched thoroughly to avoid this.

To those of you who are asked by

your school for your input, and I hope you will be, my advice is to AIM AS HIGH AS POSSIBLE! Ask for those amazing laboratory additions. The worst that can happen is that you are told “no”. Use the fantastic resource we have, the List Serve, to find out all those handy things others have in their labs which have worked. You will receive a lot of information as I have, too much to list here. Look up Modulab laboratories. They have a lot of ideas about layout, and are often promoted through Westlab newsletters for those of you who are signed up to those. And lastly, but definitely not least, and actually most importantly, ensure your new laboratories comply with regulations. These can be found here - https://assist.asta.edu.au/sites/assist.asta.edu.au/files/Guidelines%20for%20Science%20facilities.pdf

Helen Fernandez Laboratory Technician

Bacchus Marsh College Our school, Bacchus Marsh Secondary, are in the early stages of building a new STEM and year 9 centre.

- 8 -


PICTURE: Oxley College’s current Biology classroom

PICTURE: Science Classroom, Marist College, Bendigo (Karen Egan’s School)

of other lab techs on the list, I advised against this layout as students all have their backs to the teacher and it is more difficult to see what is going on. It also limits the width of the practical bench. Although I had reservations at first about the suggestion of island benches (practical work and desk work would be on the same bench, thereby increasing the risk of contamination, not to mention the possibility of students playing with gas taps during theory classes) it seems to be the most logical solution since we are working with very limited space. Besides, with our current layout, students already take their laptops and books to the practical benches to collect results. As the possibility of playing with taps could be a concern, I forwarded my Head of Science a photo from Karen Egan’s school of another possible layout, the third photo. Brilliant! This could be a goer, thanks Karen!

So, apart from throwing around some ideas, we have had a visit from an interior designer on two occasions. Measurements have been taken and photos of ideas have been given to her. At this point, this is as far as we have gone in our renovation journey. I have worked at other schools that

have undergone renovations on old labs, and although it is a huge task to move everything out and back in again, it is well worth it. Unfortunately, the renovations of those labs involved changing the porous wooden benches to another porous material that, although looked nice, eventually absorbed the chemical stains! The floors were the same, so materials for both need to be researched thoroughly to avoid this.

To those of you who are asked by

your school for your input, and I hope you will be, my advice is to AIM AS HIGH AS POSSIBLE! Ask for those amazing laboratory additions. The worst that can happen is that you are told “no”. Use the fantastic resource we have, the List Serve, to find out all those handy things others have in their labs which have worked. You will receive a lot of information as I have, too much to list here. Look up Modulab laboratories. They have a lot of ideas about layout, and are often promoted through Westlab newsletters for those of you who are signed up to those. And lastly, but definitely not least, and actually most importantly, ensure your new laboratories comply with regulations. These can be found here - https://assist.asta.edu.au/sites/assist.asta.edu.au/files/Guidelines%20for%20Science%20facilities.pdf

Helen Fernandez Laboratory Technician

Bacchus Marsh College Our school, Bacchus Marsh Secondary, are in the early stages of building a new STEM and year 9 centre.

- 9 -


15 months ago, the architects brought the proposed plans for the science rooms, prep room etc. and asked for our input. From the plans, it seemed rather inadequate with regards to the size of the prep room, storage spaces and chemical storeroom. A science teacher and I pointed out the short- comings, but we have never seen the revised (if any) plans. We can only hope that no retrofitting is necessary to make the spaces workable. In 2009, two campuses merged which meant we gained a huge amount of equipment from the closed junior campus. From what we saw of the plans for the new building, we would have to fit three prep rooms worth of equipment and chemicals into one prep room, one chemical store and no separate office space. There will be some storage units and under-bench stores in the three science labs (down from four labs currently). Meaning we will need to cull. Firstly, we will be having one room for each

strand: one Chemistry Lab, one Physics Lab and one Biology Lab. Our main surplus and obsolete equipment is in the Physics area. Several items have not been used since I started here in 2004. Hydrometers, ripple tanks, air tables, electric bells, signal generator, air track and all the accessories, various Vernier sensors that are now obsolete, electrostatics equipment, Wimshurst machine, Aepinus condenser, spectral emission tubes, force table, current balance kit, and numerous other items that I cannot identify. I feel I could start a museum somewhere maybe! Will this type of physics equipment be needed in the future? There seem to be few physics teachers out there who know how to use the equipment. When one leaves, their pet equipment is no longer used. I have asked the Principal if I can begin to sort through all this equipment when I have spare time - I am 0.6 time fraction and have been told that we can expect to move into

the new science rooms at the start of 2019. I have been told to put it all in one place so that everyone can take a look at what we have. Maybe I will get some Recall days out of it. The prospect of rationalising and moving everything seems quite overwhelming at this point in time. I can only hope that the science teachers will be able to assist in this process. According to our business manager, the school will receive funds to fit out the new labs and prep room with a dishwasher, incubator, chemical cupboards, storage units etc. Westlab have offered to visit and provide quotes and advice at the start of Term 4, when we will hopefully know more about the extent of the funding. Meanwhile I will begin documenting when I get the time.

For more extensive information on laboratory design, visit the LTAV website and download the LTAV Laboratory Environment Policy.

www.ltav.org.au

Anab Mohamud Laboratory Technician

Epping Secondary College We had our labs refurbished (flooring, blinds, painting, and fume cupboards) over the summer. We were also short on storage in the prep room, but our storage area has been postponed for this term. We are trying to get open shelf areas as we have used under-bench cupboards, which were hard to

reach in the particular area that we are renovating. In terms of moving stuff out of the labs: Storage: We were lucky we had two other science labs (portables) so we moved everything there. Bulky items: All our science staff contributed in helping to move the items. Maintenance moved the heavier items.

Final stages: I moved the smaller items bit by bit (boxed and labelled) every day into the portables. I started moving them in November and work was to start Dec/Jan. I would advise anyone moving/renovating to plan ahead, get help from other staff and maintenance, especially if you are the only lab tech.

- 10 -


LABCON 2018

Bringing Excellence to Science Education The Conference specifically for Laboratory Technicians

Something Different!

LABCON 2018 will be held over 4 days!

Venue Melbourne Graduate School of Education

University of Melbourne 234 Queensberry Street, Parkville 3010

Dates

Tuesday 20 November to Friday 23 November 2018

Program Outline

Tuesday 20 November

Wednesday 21 November

Thursday 22 November

Friday 23 November

Chemwatch Session Keynote Speaker Concurrent Workshops

Exhibition Conference Dinner

Keynote Speaker Concurrent Workshops

Exhibition Annual General

Meeting

Tours

We are now calling for workshop presenters to indicate if they are willing to present workshops at LABCON 2018. Sponsors and exhibitors are also invited to email their expression of interest.

Registration Fees for LABCON 2018

LTAV Members attending at least one day of the conference can attend one post conference tour at no charge.

LTAV Member Non Member Full Registration – Wednesday and Thursday includes dinner $365.00 $435.00 Full Registration – Wednesday and Thursday excludes dinner $315.00 $385.00

One day Registration includes dinner $305.00 $375.00 One day Registration excludes dinner $255.00 $325.00

Friday Tour or Tuesday Chemwatch Workshop $66.00 $97.00 Conference Dinner (extra tickets) $85.00 $105.00

ALL ENQUIRIES Marg Scarlett

LABCON CONFERENCE MANAGER [email protected]


The of Victoria two in furthering knowledge and expertise in science education by offering two scholarships to

attend LABCON (20-23 November

If you have already registered and paid for LABCON this year, you are still eligible to apply for the scholarship and if you are successful, your school will be reimbursed.

The scholarships are offered to LTAV members who are school-based Victorian science laboratory technicians that have been in the industry less than five years.

Each scholarship will cover the full cost of LABCON registration including one tour, a 2-night accommodation package and entry to the conference dinner. Any other costs and charges associated with acceptance of this scholarship must be met by the winner(s). Two scholarships only will be offered. Awards are not transferable.

Applicants should provide a brief CV and details of the anticipated benefits for both the applicant and the Association. The successful applicants will be expected to write a small article for Lablines outlining their experiences at the conference.

Written applications addressed to the LTAV Secretary can be posted S3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122

or emailed to:

and must be received no later than Friday 7 September 2018

PETER ELLIS 2018 SCHOLARSHIPS

- 10 -


LABCON 2018

Bringing Excellence to Science Education The Conference specifically for Laboratory Technicians

Something Different!

LABCON 2018 will be held over 4 days!

Venue Melbourne Graduate School of Education

University of Melbourne 234 Queensberry Street, Parkville 3010

Dates

Tuesday 20 November to Friday 23 November 2018

Program Outline

Tuesday 20 November

Wednesday 21 November

Thursday 22 November

Friday 23 November

Chemwatch Session Keynote Speaker Concurrent Workshops

Exhibition Conference Dinner

Keynote Speaker Concurrent Workshops

Exhibition Annual General

Meeting

Tours

We are now calling for workshop presenters to indicate if they are willing to present workshops at LABCON 2018. Sponsors and exhibitors are also invited to email their expression of interest.

Registration Fees for LABCON 2018

LTAV Members attending at least one day of the conference can attend one post conference tour at no charge.

LTAV Member Non Member Full Registration – Wednesday and Thursday includes dinner $365.00 $435.00 Full Registration – Wednesday and Thursday excludes dinner $315.00 $385.00

One day Registration includes dinner $305.00 $375.00 One day Registration excludes dinner $255.00 $325.00

Friday Tour or Tuesday Chemwatch Workshop $66.00 $97.00 Conference Dinner (extra tickets) $85.00 $105.00

ALL ENQUIRIES Marg Scarlett

LABCON CONFERENCE MANAGER [email protected]


The of Victoria two in furthering knowledge and expertise in science education by offering two scholarships to

attend LABCON (20-23 November

If you have already registered and paid for LABCON this year, you are still eligible to apply for the scholarship and if you are successful, your school will be reimbursed.

The scholarships are offered to LTAV members who are school-based Victorian science laboratory technicians that have been in the industry less than five years.

Each scholarship will cover the full cost of LABCON registration including one tour, a 2-night accommodation package and entry to the conference dinner. Any other costs and charges associated with acceptance of this scholarship must be met by the winner(s). Two scholarships only will be offered. Awards are not transferable.

Applicants should provide a brief CV and details of the anticipated benefits for both the applicant and the Association. The successful applicants will be expected to write a small article for Lablines outlining their experiences at the conference.

Written applications addressed to the LTAV Secretary can be posted S3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122

or emailed to:

and must be received no later than Friday 7 September 2018

PETER ELLIS 2018 SCHOLARSHIPS

- 13 -

Michael Pola Envirostore Chemical Consulting

[email protected]

This article, and the following parts, aim to answer the most common and pressing questions that come up when the topic of chemical disposal from laboratories is discussed. I hope to answer all your questions and more, and to provide a guide to correctly prepare and legally handle, store, and dispose of all your laboratory wastes.

Let’s start with some definitions: what is chemical waste?

Chemical waste is any chemical that can be classified as prescribed industrial waste (PIW) which is a legal term from the Environment Protection Industrial Waste Resource) Regulations 2009 which are referenced in the Environment Protection Act 1970. ‘Prescribed’ just means that there is a listing of chemical types and if the waste from your laboratory can be found on this prescribed waste list then it comes under the Act and associated Regulations as administered in Victoria by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). A rather lengthy definition, but in simple terms, if the waste type is on the list then it requires transport by EPA permitted transport from the disposer (you) to the disposal or treatment site, and the treatment plant must be licensed by EPA.

When we fill out the five-part EPA paperwork after collecting your chemical waste, all parties in the transaction are complying with the above Regulation. This is a legal requirement.

Rule Number 1: You must use a waste transporter who has a permit issued by EPA, who issues the relevant copies of the transport certificate and who transports the waste to a licensed treatment plant. The first and most important aspect of chemical waste disposal is that you must use a company with an EPA permit to transport the chemicals, and they must transport to a premises that is licensed to receive that type of waste. You, the disposer, must receive two coloured copies of the EPA paperwork from the transporter, these are the pink and green copies. You, as the disposer, must post the pink copy to EPA within seven days and retain

the green one for 24 months. If you are ever audited by WorkCover, for example, they may wish to see your green EPA copies to prove that you have complied with the above Regulation. Treat it as a legal document. The pink and green copes of the EPA documents must contain details of the transporter and their permit number, as well as the proposed treatment site.

Laboratory chemicals are on the prescribed list, as are empty containers, waste from chemical spills, waste oils, medical wastes (such as a yellow sharps container from a sick room), acids, alkalis, paints and solvents. In fact, just about all chemical waste encountered in school laboratories is on the prescribed list. Wastes that are not on the prescribed wastes list include e-wastes, green waste, radioactive, explosives and gas bottles, batteries, and tyres.

Rule Number 2: Treat your chemical waste as a dangerous good.

The dangerous goods system applies primarily to the transport of dangerous goods and secondly to the storage

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Waste

and the School Laboratory

Part I

PICTURE: Chemical Waste must be handled in accordance with the Dangerous Goods system


- 13 -

Michael Pola Envirostore Chemical Consulting

[email protected]

This article, and the following parts, aim to answer the most common and pressing questions that come up when the topic of chemical disposal from laboratories is discussed. I hope to answer all your questions and more, and to provide a guide to correctly prepare and legally handle, store, and dispose of all your laboratory wastes.

Let’s start with some definitions: what is chemical waste?

Chemical waste is any chemical that can be classified as prescribed industrial waste (PIW) which is a legal term from the Environment Protection Industrial Waste Resource) Regulations 2009 which are referenced in the Environment Protection Act 1970. ‘Prescribed’ just means that there is a listing of chemical types and if the waste from your laboratory can be found on this prescribed waste list then it comes under the Act and associated Regulations as administered in Victoria by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). A rather lengthy definition, but in simple terms, if the waste type is on the list then it requires transport by EPA permitted transport from the disposer (you) to the disposal or treatment site, and the treatment plant must be licensed by EPA.

When we fill out the five-part EPA paperwork after collecting your chemical waste, all parties in the transaction are complying with the above Regulation. This is a legal requirement.

Rule Number 1: You must use a waste transporter who has a permit issued by EPA, who issues the relevant copies of the transport certificate and who transports the waste to a licensed treatment plant. The first and most important aspect of chemical waste disposal is that you must use a company with an EPA permit to transport the chemicals, and they must transport to a premises that is licensed to receive that type of waste. You, the disposer, must receive two coloured copies of the EPA paperwork from the transporter, these are the pink and green copies. You, as the disposer, must post the pink copy to EPA within seven days and retain

the green one for 24 months. If you are ever audited by WorkCover, for example, they may wish to see your green EPA copies to prove that you have complied with the above Regulation. Treat it as a legal document. The pink and green copes of the EPA documents must contain details of the transporter and their permit number, as well as the proposed treatment site.

Laboratory chemicals are on the prescribed list, as are empty containers, waste from chemical spills, waste oils, medical wastes (such as a yellow sharps container from a sick room), acids, alkalis, paints and solvents. In fact, just about all chemical waste encountered in school laboratories is on the prescribed list. Wastes that are not on the prescribed wastes list include e-wastes, green waste, radioactive, explosives and gas bottles, batteries, and tyres.

Rule Number 2: Treat your chemical waste as a dangerous good.

The dangerous goods system applies primarily to the transport of dangerous goods and secondly to the storage

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Waste

and the School Laboratory

Part I

PICTURE: Chemical Waste must be handled in accordance with the Dangerous Goods system

- 14 -


of dangerous goods. The relatively small amounts of chemicals held in laboratories will usually provide some exemptions to the storage requirements, but the potential chemical reactions are just of a smaller scale. These reactions can involve a fire, explosion and chemical reactions resulting in emission of poisonous or corrosive gases - all scenarios unwelcome in a laboratory of any size.

Dangerous goods are chemicals that have physical and chemical properties that place them into one of the 9 major classes. Flammable liquids, which are Class 3, have a flash point of below 60˚C. Flash point is the lowest temperature at which vapour from the liquid can be ignited. For example, petrol has a flash point of around -15˚C. As mentioned above, school laboratories do not normally have enough dangerous goods to trigger compliance with the Dangerous Goods (storage and handling) Regulations, but because the dangerous goods system is based on actual chemical properties, it is still an excellent and unrivalled system for safely storing and handling your laboratory chemicals. It is just a matter of scale. From the definition of waste from part 1, it will be obvious that some of your chemical wastes will also be dangerous goods. Chemicals that are surplus to your requirements or have passed their used by date are now classified as chemical wastes, but the properties remain the same. Waste flammable liquid is still a flammable liquid and therefore a Class 3 dangerous good. Waste is not a dangerous goods classification and any chemical waste you generate from the laboratory must be handled in accordance with the dangerous goods system as well as the EPA requirements. Sulphuric acid waste is exactly the same as sulphuric acid in a new bottle, as far as the dangerous goods regulations are concerned.

The ramifications of the dangerous goods system as applied to your laboratory can be summarised in the requirement for storage away from incompatible dangerous goods (acids and alkalis for example), labelling (the labelling of your chemicals under the GHS is in addition to any Dangerous Goods (DG) requirements) and the maintenance of a chemical manifest. The manifest should include all the required GHS and DG data.

Remember the GHS system applies to exposure to hazardous substances during the use of chemicals that

are hazardous substances, but there is plenty of overlap between the DG and GHS systems. There is a summary sheet on the GHS for schools on the www.envirostore.com.au website.

If your waste is not a dangerous good, you may store and handle without reference to the DG system, but labelling requirements are unchanged. Non-hazardous is not a DG classification.

In the next edition of Lablines we will deal with the labelling of chemical wastes in detail, but remember, when your waste is a dangerous good, or was once a dangerous good, it remains one and must be treated in the same way as a dangerous good. Chemical and physical properties do not go away when something becomes waste.

The next edition will cover labelling, suitable containers for waste, in-house treatments and anything else I can think of between then and now.

Your comments and questions are welcome and you can either contact myself directly, or Jessica Boys, the Lablines editor.

PICTURE: The properties of your chemicals do not change once they become ‘waste’.

- 15 -


Conditionaire is now offering more than just Fume Cupboard/Fume Hood/Ductless Fume Cupboard solutions for your School/Company/Research Facility/University etc. We are now in association with two other companies: Validair Sciences and Biosafety. For peace of mind, we are a Nata Accredited Company, so we get all our staff and equipment audited annually. Because of this, our reporting/results, as per the standards, must reference the correct AS/NZS 2014.8-2014 and include a photo/sketch, which is required on the reports as well. Science ASSIST reiterates/recommends using a Nata Accredited Company for testing/servicing.

Website Address https://assist.asta.edu.au/

Why are we associating with two other companies you may ask? Very simple; to help our existing and new clients have one Contractor who can provide expertise in three main fields:

Fume Cupboards/Fume Hoods/Biosafety Cabinets/Laminar Flow Units/HEPA Filters

Testing/Hygiene

Odour Testing (testing and supplying reports for Chem Storage Rooms/Cabinets etc. as evidence of unusually high odours in these areas so they can be rectified for proper ventilation)

We have experience in dealing with all models of Fume Cupboards that are on the current market today and most past makes/models. We can offer you original parts on your current makes/models or retro fit ours onto

whatever make/model you have if those parts are not available or don’t exist anymore, or you simply don`t like the existing control/operating system that is already in place. This is a huge advantage over all our competitors,

as most cannot do this. All associated companies have full accreditation in their respective fields. I have also presented a list of other services that are available to all our clients and new clients….and we now have access

through an online portal for all our clients to see or gather their test reports and have a full asset history on their fume cupboards etc including comments/repairs...but…there will be even more capabilities coming in the future!

Repairs/Upgrades/Trouble Shooting of All Fume Cupboards/Fume Hoods/ETC.

Fume Cupboard Testing/Servicing/Cleaning and Fume Cupboard Sales

Fume Hood/Exhaust Arm Testing and Fume Hood/Exhaust Arm Sales

Ductless/Recirculating Fume Hood Testing and Ductless/Recirculating Fume Cupboard Sales

Air Curtain Sales

Contact me now if you are unhappy with the current rates you are paying for fume cupboard/fume hood testing, contact me now for a competitive price and if you do become a client of ours, you will have access to our new online portal. How many other companies in today’s market offer all this?

- 15 -


Conditionaire is now offering more than just Fume Cupboard/Fume Hood/Ductless Fume Cupboard solutions for your School/Company/Research Facility/University etc. We are now in association with two other companies: Validair Sciences and Biosafety. For peace of mind, we are a Nata Accredited Company, so we get all our staff and equipment audited annually. Because of this, our reporting/results, as per the standards, must reference the correct AS/NZS 2014.8-2014 and include a photo/sketch, which is required on the reports as well. Science ASSIST reiterates/recommends using a Nata Accredited Company for testing/servicing.

Website Address https://assist.asta.edu.au/

Why are we associating with two other companies you may ask? Very simple; to help our existing and new clients have one Contractor who can provide expertise in three main fields:

Fume Cupboards/Fume Hoods/Biosafety Cabinets/Laminar Flow Units/HEPA Filters

Testing/Hygiene

Odour Testing (testing and supplying reports for Chem Storage Rooms/Cabinets etc. as evidence of unusually high odours in these areas so they can be rectified for proper ventilation)

We have experience in dealing with all models of Fume Cupboards that are on the current market today and most past makes/models. We can offer you original parts on your current makes/models or retro fit ours onto

whatever make/model you have if those parts are not available or don’t exist anymore, or you simply don`t like the existing control/operating system that is already in place. This is a huge advantage over all our competitors,

as most cannot do this. All associated companies have full accreditation in their respective fields. I have also presented a list of other services that are available to all our clients and new clients….and we now have access

through an online portal for all our clients to see or gather their test reports and have a full asset history on their fume cupboards etc including comments/repairs...but…there will be even more capabilities coming in the future!

Repairs/Upgrades/Trouble Shooting of All Fume Cupboards/Fume Hoods/ETC.

Fume Cupboard Testing/Servicing/Cleaning and Fume Cupboard Sales

Fume Hood/Exhaust Arm Testing and Fume Hood/Exhaust Arm Sales

Ductless/Recirculating Fume Hood Testing and Ductless/Recirculating Fume Cupboard Sales

Air Curtain Sales

Contact me now if you are unhappy with the current rates you are paying for fume cupboard/fume hood testing, contact me now for a competitive price and if you do become a client of ours, you will have access to our new online portal. How many other companies in today’s market offer all this?

- 17 -


Kim Tynan Laboratory Technician Carey Baptist Grammar School, Kew For the lab technicians here at Carey Baptist Grammar School, I don’t think there is ever a typical week in the Science Department. We can be asked to prepare and deliver from 65-100 pracs for the 2000+ year 7-12 students. A big task for 4-5 staff.

We have 5 science prep rooms (scattered across the campus) where all the hard work is done. Requests come in by 10am Thursday morning (or at least that is what is supposed to happen) for the following week starting on Monday. The fabulous team work out what needs to be ordered or purchased for the following week then we start preparing pracs based on where and when they are required. We have been asked for a range of items from

flushable wipes, lollies of every description, chicken livers and recently 90L of various cokes for a coke and mentos self design experiment. Some lab technicians focus on middle school pracs, others Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Biology pracs require a continuous supply of agar plates and sterile equipment. We would be lost without the new bench steam sterilizer.

Chemical preparation is a daily duty and memories of making 25L of 2M Hydrochloric acid in a day still come to mind. Each area has its own set of equipment and class sets of basic chemicals but stock solutions are prepared in the main Science building/chemical store and transferred as required. As the school is so large and we have some year levels in multiple areas due to timetabling, we do frequently find ourselves pushing trolleys of equipment around. Data logging has become a routine part of all disciplines, our teachers using Pasco gear, so our skills in this area are always in demand.

We used to set up all senior pracs for the students but due to

A Week in the Life of a Lab Tech

PICTURE: One of the Carey Baptist Grammar School’s Prep Rooms.

Quick 3

What is the best practical you have prepared? The best prac I have prepared would have to be making algal balls a few years ago before they were commonly used for a senior prac. Having to adapt a method for a student IA and then seeing the excitement when she was able to replicate it and get great results. It was a reward for all the hard work and persistence in trying to help her complete her studies.

Tell us your worst request? My worst request would have to be sourcing pig’s blood for an IB Biology class. I could not get it from the normal suppliers so had to go to several market butchers before I finally was able to purchase some. It was a thick congealed mass and so disgusting to work with. We now buy the horse blood from Southern Biological which is so much nicer.

What is your favourite thing about being a lab manager? My favourite thing about being a Lab Manager is to be able to utilise my organisational skills, ensuring the pracs run smoothly and safely, we have an orderly and labelled storage area so lab staff and teachers can locate items easily and students are able to have a fulfilling science experience.

- 17 -


Kim Tynan Laboratory Technician Carey Baptist Grammar School, Kew For the lab technicians here at Carey Baptist Grammar School, I don’t think there is ever a typical week in the Science Department. We can be asked to prepare and deliver from 65-100 pracs for the 2000+ year 7-12 students. A big task for 4-5 staff.

We have 5 science prep rooms (scattered across the campus) where all the hard work is done. Requests come in by 10am Thursday morning (or at least that is what is supposed to happen) for the following week starting on Monday. The fabulous team work out what needs to be ordered or purchased for the following week then we start preparing pracs based on where and when they are required. We have been asked for a range of items from

flushable wipes, lollies of every description, chicken livers and recently 90L of various cokes for a coke and mentos self design experiment. Some lab technicians focus on middle school pracs, others Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Biology pracs require a continuous supply of agar plates and sterile equipment. We would be lost without the new bench steam sterilizer.

Chemical preparation is a daily duty and memories of making 25L of 2M Hydrochloric acid in a day still come to mind. Each area has its own set of equipment and class sets of basic chemicals but stock solutions are prepared in the main Science building/chemical store and transferred as required. As the school is so large and we have some year levels in multiple areas due to timetabling, we do frequently find ourselves pushing trolleys of equipment around. Data logging has become a routine part of all disciplines, our teachers using Pasco gear, so our skills in this area are always in demand.

We used to set up all senior pracs for the students but due to

A Week in the Life of a Lab Tech

PICTURE: One of the Carey Baptist Grammar School’s Prep Rooms.

Quick 3

What is the best practical you have prepared? The best prac I have prepared would have to be making algal balls a few years ago before they were commonly used for a senior prac. Having to adapt a method for a student IA and then seeing the excitement when she was able to replicate it and get great results. It was a reward for all the hard work and persistence in trying to help her complete her studies.

Tell us your worst request? My worst request would have to be sourcing pig’s blood for an IB Biology class. I could not get it from the normal suppliers so had to go to several market butchers before I finally was able to purchase some. It was a thick congealed mass and so disgusting to work with. We now buy the horse blood from Southern Biological which is so much nicer.

What is your favourite thing about being a lab manager? My favourite thing about being a Lab Manager is to be able to utilise my organisational skills, ensuring the pracs run smoothly and safely, we have an orderly and labelled storage area so lab staff and teachers can locate items easily and students are able to have a fulfilling science experience.

- 18 -


increased numbers we now only set up the SACs and selected IB pracs for the students so they are ready to get to work the minute they enter the laboratory. Having worked in a number of schools I have found that although the curriculum may be the same, the expectations of lab staff

can vary, especially in an IB school where there is a lot more individual work done by students (which ultimately means a greater workload for the lab techs). We continue all week to work through our prac set up and, if possible, get a few days ahead of the work as there is always a late request (or many in some weeks) or an additional problem we have to solve. Relocating classes due to a need for fume hoods seems to be an ever present problem. We also have to deal with frequent changes of request due to teacher illness, students being on excursions or just not being ‘ready’ for the requested prac. Our schedule sheets can sometime have more arrows than a snakes and ladders board. This time of the year is always a hectic period with the IB individual design pracs taking place. This puts our lab skills, patience and fitness to the test as we manage to prepare solutions and equipment for 23 Physics, 53 Chemistry and 39 Biology students. We try to stagger the timing of these IAs but plans always change and we have to be ready for the challenge and the weeks of late nights and short breaks. Thankfully, we should get a week break before the VCE chemistry start their individual design too.

Suddenly, it’s Thursday and the prac requests start rolling in again. Week after week we continue. They fly by and we certainly look forward to the term breaks. We earn them. We also look forward to Science week and working with the junior school and ELC when they come up at various times during the year to experience science in the ‘BIG’ school.

PICTURE: One of our fabulous lab techs, Ella Gentilin, in action.

- 19 -


Sender: Melissa Priest Date: 4 May 2018 Subject: [LTAVlist] May the 4th be with you

The first of our school's baby lambs for 2018 were born this morning...twin boys named Han and Solo.

The LTAV list-serv is provided to all LTAV members and is an amazing resource for laboratory technicians working in educational institutions. Whether you have a question that needs to be answered, or just need a laugh every now and then, sign up to the list-serv forum and meet a bunch of fun, friendly and helpful lab techs, just like yourself! Go to www.ltav.org.au and click ‘Join the LTAV List’.

In 2006 the committee approved the introduction of a new award to be presented to a laboratory technician who is, or has been, employed in a Victorian educational institution and who has made a significant contribution to the role of Victorian educational laboratory technicians. Unlike the Distinguished Service Awards (DSAs) which have strict eligibility criteria of outstanding service by someone who has served in an official capacity for a minimum of 7 years and who is no longer serving in an official capacity, the new award is open to all present and past Victorian educational laboratory technicians. The award is named in honour of Susannah Larratt who was the Kew Regional Representative for a considerable number of years and who passed away in 2006 while still serving in this capacity. She was posthumously awarded a DSA at the end of 2006. The award is available for presentation on an annual basis to persons nominated as being eligible, but will not necessarily be awarded every year. It is hoped that this award will serve to recognise those who act behind the scenes to further the cause of educational laboratory technicians but who are not necessarily in the limelight. If you know a lab technician who you consider a candidate for this award, please send a message detailing the

reasons for your nomination to:

[email protected]

by Friday 7th September 2017

SUSANNAH LARRATT AWARD

List Laughs and Life Hacks

Sender: Christine Giarrusso Date: 4 May 2018 Subject: Re: [LTAVlist] May the 4th be with you

Love the irony of a twin being called 'Solo'!!!!!

Sender: Peter Eames Date: 4 May 2018 Subject: Re: [LTAVlist] May the 4th be with you

Huge missed opportunity for "Baa-th Vader".


Jab-baa the Hutt?


Ewes the force wisely.

- 18 -


increased numbers we now only set up the SACs and selected IB pracs for the students so they are ready to get to work the minute they enter the laboratory. Having worked in a number of schools I have found that although the curriculum may be the same, the expectations of lab staff

can vary, especially in an IB school where there is a lot more individual work done by students (which ultimately means a greater workload for the lab techs). We continue all week to work through our prac set up and, if possible, get a few days ahead of the work as there is always a late request (or many in some weeks) or an additional problem we have to solve. Relocating classes due to a need for fume hoods seems to be an ever present problem. We also have to deal with frequent changes of request due to teacher illness, students being on excursions or just not being ‘ready’ for the requested prac. Our schedule sheets can sometime have more arrows than a snakes and ladders board. This time of the year is always a hectic period with the IB individual design pracs taking place. This puts our lab skills, patience and fitness to the test as we manage to prepare solutions and equipment for 23 Physics, 53 Chemistry and 39 Biology students. We try to stagger the timing of these IAs but plans always change and we have to be ready for the challenge and the weeks of late nights and short breaks. Thankfully, we should get a week break before the VCE chemistry start their individual design too.

Suddenly, it’s Thursday and the prac requests start rolling in again. Week after week we continue. They fly by and we certainly look forward to the term breaks. We earn them. We also look forward to Science week and working with the junior school and ELC when they come up at various times during the year to experience science in the ‘BIG’ school.

PICTURE: One of our fabulous lab techs, Ella Gentilin, in action.

- 19 -


Sender: Melissa Priest Date: 4 May 2018 Subject: [LTAVlist] May the 4th be with you

The first of our school's baby lambs for 2018 were born this morning...twin boys named Han and Solo.

The LTAV list-serv is provided to all LTAV members and is an amazing resource for laboratory technicians working in educational institutions. Whether you have a question that needs to be answered, or just need a laugh every now and then, sign up to the list-serv forum and meet a bunch of fun, friendly and helpful lab techs, just like yourself! Go to www.ltav.org.au and click ‘Join the LTAV List’.

In 2006 the committee approved the introduction of a new award to be presented to a laboratory technician who is, or has been, employed in a Victorian educational institution and who has made a significant contribution to the role of Victorian educational laboratory technicians. Unlike the Distinguished Service Awards (DSAs) which have strict eligibility criteria of outstanding service by someone who has served in an official capacity for a minimum of 7 years and who is no longer serving in an official capacity, the new award is open to all present and past Victorian educational laboratory technicians. The award is named in honour of Susannah Larratt who was the Kew Regional Representative for a considerable number of years and who passed away in 2006 while still serving in this capacity. She was posthumously awarded a DSA at the end of 2006. The award is available for presentation on an annual basis to persons nominated as being eligible, but will not necessarily be awarded every year. It is hoped that this award will serve to recognise those who act behind the scenes to further the cause of educational laboratory technicians but who are not necessarily in the limelight. If you know a lab technician who you consider a candidate for this award, please send a message detailing the

reasons for your nomination to:

[email protected]

by Friday 7th September 2017

SUSANNAH LARRATT AWARD

List Laughs and Life Hacks


Love the irony of a twin being called 'Solo'!!!!!


Huge missed opportunity for "Baa-th Vader".


Jab-baa the Hutt?


Ewes the force wisely.

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Brain Break

A Sudoku Puzzle with a twist! Instead of numbers, each row, column and 3x3 square must contain one of each of the 9 letters in the word REACTIONS.

Rating: MEDIUM

S I C A S I O R R O E

R I O T C S E C S S A

O N A A E R

10 of the Best

1. In fireworks, the green flame is due to which element? 2. A squab is the young of which animal? 3. Alopecia is a condition causing the loss of what from the body? 4. Which metal is used in the making of microchips? 5. What is the biological polymer in paper? 6. What do 1,000 gigabytes make? 7. What is the world’s largest fish? 8. Which are the only two planets in the solar system that do not have

moons? 9. True or False? A banana has four sides. 10. Which 16th century scientist proposed that the earth orbited the sun?

(Answers on page 22)

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How many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters in the grid below? Each word must contain the centre letter and proper nouns are not allowed. See if you can figure out the 9 letter word!

Average: 18 Good: 23 Excellent: 29 Genius: 34

M E A S G N M I T

9 Letter Word: __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

10 of the Best Answers 1 Barium 2 Dove 3 Hair 4 Silicon 5 Cellulose 6 A Terabyte 7 The Whale Shark 8 Mercury and Venus 9 False, they have five sides 10 Copernicus

DID YOU KNOW? There are more trees on earth than stars in our galaxy.

NASA estimates 100-400 billion stars in the Milky Way galaxy. Nature journal estimates 3.04 trillion trees on earth.


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LTAV PUBLICATIONS 2018The following laboratory reference manuals and/or CD are available from LTAV:

• BIOLOGY REFERENCE MANUAL, 2013: $25.00 for CD and black and white hard copy combination.

This REVISED handbook contains information on biological techniques, reagents, stains and culture media commonly used in secondary schools. Dale Carroll, Ritva Fazio, Sarah Daniele and Wendy Hurle have updated the earlier version by Dale Carroll, Ritva Fazio, Jeannene Bradbury and Marg Rubans of the original authors of: Jenny Kopsidas, Rita Poole, Jean Stokes and Maya Wagner.

• PHYSICS REFERENCE MANUAL, 2013: $25 for CD and black and white hard copy combination. Svetlana Machouba has made many updates to the earlier version by Sabino Del Balso and Valerie Clements.

• CHEMISTRY: A REFERENCE MANUAL FOR LABORATORY TECHNICIANS, 2008: $27.50 by Geoff Gleadall, Dip.App.Sci. A comprehensive guide for the beginning and experienced Laboratory Technician in all aspects of the chemistry laboratory.

• LABORATORY MANAGEMENT DATABASES CD, Version 2, 2009 $33 by Geoff Gleadall, Dip.App.Sci.

LTAV PUBLICATIONS TAX INVOICE & ORDER FORMABN 96 439 156 002

Name:

School:

Address: Postcode:

Phone / Fax: Email:

Publication Price (each) Quantity Sub total

Biology Ref Manual 2013 CD + Hard copy $25

Physics Ref Manual 2013 CD + Hard copy $25

Laboratory Management Databases 2009 CD v2 $33

Chemistry a Ref Manual for Lab Technicians 2008 $27.50

Postage ($4 per for each copy) Number of units x$4

Goods will not be posted until payment has been processed.

Prices are inclusive of GST TOTAL

Payment Method

Payment By Direct Deposit Payment By Cheque

Account name:Laboratory Technicians’ Association of VictoriaBSB: 063 532Account No: 1040 1068Bank: Commonwealth Bank of AustraliaReference payment with Surname or School NameREF: Email remittance to Andy Baful or post with this [email protected]

Payable to:Laboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria

Post with order form to:LTAV IncS3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150Hawthorn, Victoria 3122

By Lab Technicians for Lab TechniciansS3/159 Burwood Road

Suite 150Hawthorn VIC 3122

www.ltav.org.au

LTAVLaboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria

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How many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters in the grid below? Each word must contain the centre letter and proper nouns are not allowed. See if you can figure out the 9 letter word!

Average: 18 Good: 23 Excellent: 29 Genius: 34

M E A S G N M I T

9 Letter Word: __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

_____________________________________

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

10 of the Best Answers 1 Barium 2 Dove 3 Hair 4 Silicon 5 Cellulose 6 A Terabyte 7 The Whale Shark 8 Mercury and Venus 9 False, they have five sides 10 Copernicus

DID YOU KNOW? There are more trees on earth than stars in our galaxy.

NASA estimates 100-400 billion stars in the Milky Way galaxy. Nature journal estimates 3.04 trillion trees on earth.

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2018 LTAV MEMBERSHIP TAX INVOICEABN: 96 439 156 002

REGISTRATION (first time members) / DETAILS (continuing members) (please circle one)

New members to LTAV must complete an APPLICATION FORM as well (refer to website above)

Technicians employed or formerly employed in educational institutions are eligible for membership of LTAV. Financial members receive

Lablines, LABCON 2018 Registration Booklet plus discount and voting rights at the Annual General Meeting at LABCON.

Member name:

Name of School / Institution:

Postal address of School / Institution:

Suburb: State: Postcode:

Email address:

Phone number:

Position in organisation: Temporary or permanent? (circle one)

If temporary please give details of term of employment:

Have you registered at more than one school / Organisation? Yes / No

If yes, please indicate where you would like your Lablines sent:

Region:

Signed: Date:

PLEASE TICK THIS BOX if you are a new Laboratory Technician or Assistant in your 1st year of employment in education and LTAV will

cover the cost of your Membership for this 1st year.

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE – FULL YEAR (1st Jan 2018 to 31st Dec 2018) $44.00 ( includes GST ).

Payment due by 30th April 2018

Send payment to: Laboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria Inc S3/159 Burwood Road, Suite 150, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122

Please make Cheque or Money Order payable to: Laboratory TechniciansAssociation of Victoria.This Membership Tax Invoice must be sent with payment.

Direct Banking details: Commonwealth Bank of Australia BSB: 063 532 Account Number: 1040 1068 Reference payment with SURNAME AND SCHOOL NAME

If paying by Direct Credit the Remittance Advice must be posted or can be emailed to: [email protected] Please ensure this Membership Form is posted or emailed at the same time. Please note that Memberships cannot be processed if paperwork is incomplete. Tax Receipts will be issued to confirm LTAV Membership.

OFFICE USE ONLY

Tax Receipt No:

Payment date:

Method:

By Lab Technicians for Lab TechniciansS3/159 Burwood Road

Suite 150Hawthorn VIC 3122

www.ltav.org.au

LTAVLaboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria

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LTAV Regional Representatives 2018

Ballarat RegionCarol HorsmanSaint Patrick’s College, Ballarat Tel: 5322 [email protected]

Dandenong RegionWendy HurleNarre Warren South P-12 CollegeTel: 9704 [email protected]

Eastern/Maroondah RegionSimone MartynYarra Valley Grammar Tel: 9262 7807 [email protected]

Geelong RegionSarah DanieleKardinia International College, GeelongTel: 5278 [email protected]

Gippsland RegionDebby Butler Catholic College, SaleTel: 5143 [email protected]

Hume RegionClaire Stock Myrtleford P-12 CollegeTel: 5752 1174 [email protected]

Kew RegionKaren McCoy Genazzano FJC, KewTel: 8862 [email protected]

Loddon/Campaspe/Mallee RegionKaren EganMarist College Bendigo Tel: 5400 [email protected]

Nillumbik/Banyule RegionJackie HamletDiamond Valley College, Diamond Creek Tel: 9438 [email protected]

North and North/West Metro RegionMary L JonesKeilor Downs College Tel: 9365 [email protected]

Andy BafulCopperfield College, Delahey Tel: 9307 [email protected]

South Yarra/Moorabbin RegionVacant

Sunraysia RegionNarelle DivolaIrymple Secondary College, Irymple Tel: 5024 [email protected]

Warrnambool RegionLeanne BaxterHamilton and Alexandra College, Hamilton Tel: 5572 [email protected]

Wimmera/Horsham RegionSusan BellDimboola Memorial Secondary College [email protected]

Otway RegionJan HorvathLorne P-12 CollegeTel: 5289 [email protected]

Mornington RegionHamida LuftiMcClelland College, Frankston Tel: 9789 [email protected]

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Laboratory Technicians’ Association of Victoria2018 Committee

PRESIDENTMARCIA ROGERSON CBC St.KildaTel: 9529 6611 [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENTSUZANNE THORNLEYMentone Girls’ Secondary CollegeTel: 9581 [email protected]

SECRETARYCHRISTINE NOLANSt Michaels Grammar, St Kilda Tel: 0412 163 177 [email protected] [email protected]

TREASURERLYNETTE BAKERAssumption College KilmoreTel: 5782 [email protected]

POLICY OFFICERGEOFF GLEADALL Monterey Secondary College Tel: 0438 638 [email protected]

NATIONAL NETWORKCOORDINATORDALE CARROLLGeelong CollegeTel: 5226 3136 [email protected]

SETA REPRESENTATIVESTACEY OLDMAN Melbourne University MGSE Tel: 8344 6280 [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP OFFICERSIMONE MARTYNYarra Valley GrammarTel: 9262 7807 [email protected]

REGIONAL LIAISON OFFICERTHERESE GRAHAMCathedral College, WangarattaTel: 5722 [email protected]

DEBORAH SUNWaverley Christian College, Narre Warren SouthTel: 8765 [email protected]

LTAV PUBLICATIONS OFFICERANDY BAFULCopperfield College, Delahey Tel: 9307 5558 [email protected]

SAFETY INFORMATION OFFICERKELLEE BALLARDEmerald Secondary CollegeTel: 5968 [email protected]

ANIMAL ETHICS LIAISON OFFICERGLENN CONDONWestbourne Grammar School, TruganinaTel: 9731 9444 [email protected]

WEBSITE AND LIST-SERV ADMINISTRATION KELLEE BALLARD Emerald Secondary College Tel: 5968 [email protected]

LAB LINES EDITORJESSICA BOYSOfficer Secondary CollegeTel: 5942 [email protected]

LAB LINES DISTRIBUTIONCATHERINE WHELAN Ivanhoe Grammar Tel: 9490 3464 [email protected]

GENERAL COMMITTEETHERESE GRAHAMCathedral College, WangarattaTel: 5722 [email protected]

WENDY HURLE Narre Warren South P-12 Tel: 9704 3333 [email protected]

MARY L JONES Keilor Downs College Tel: 9365 8000 [email protected]

BARBARA BLAKE Elwood College Tel: 9531 [email protected]

Please feel free to contact any member of your committee with any queries or concerns. Members are always welcome at committee meetings. Contact any committee member for more information.

LTAV Committee Meeting Dates 2018.The Committee meets at CBC St Kilda, 11 Westbury Street, St Kilda East and

St Michael’s Grammar School, 25 Chapel Street, St Kilda. The meetings usually go from 6:30– 9:30 p.m.

All members of LTAV are most welcome to attend. Please be in touch with the LTAV Secretary to confirm the location.

February 20, May 1, July 31, September 11, October 23 and November 27

Documents

Volume 37 Number 2 June 2018 Editor: Jessica Boys- 4 - Labline s Vol 37 No. 2 June 2018 Thank you! You are awesome! different school and I put her name as a reference in my resume