Adding Microbiology Testing Capability to a Laboratory
Adding microbiology testing requires a segregated laboratory area with appropriate biosafety containment, incubators, biosafety cabinets, an autoclave, media preparation and a strict environmental monitoring and quality control programme. The biosafety level of the organisms handled drives facility design.
What is this capability?
Microbiology testing detects, counts or identifies microorganisms — for product release, environmental monitoring, water testing and sterility or bioburden work.
Typical equipment (categories)
- Biosafety cabinets
- Incubators at the required temperatures
- Autoclave(s) for media and waste
- Colony counters, microscopes
Supporting equipment
- Media preparation and storage
- Water purification
- Rapid or automated identification systems where justified
- Environmental monitoring samplers
Facility considerations
Physical separation from production, controlled airflow, cleanable surfaces, waste decontamination and biosafety assessment for the organisms involved.
Calibration and service
Incubator and autoclave temperature mapping or verification, biosafety cabinet certification, pipette and balance calibration.
Before bringing it in-house, decide
- Which methods and standards you must run, and whether customers require accredited results
- Realistic annual sample volume and how steady it is
- Who will operate, calibrate and maintain the equipment — and who covers when they are away
- Whether the space, utilities and environmental control are adequate today
- Whether outsourcing until volumes are proven is the lower-risk first step
Common questions
- Can microbiology share space with chemistry?
- It is generally separated to prevent contamination and for biosafety. Seek qualified advice on containment for your organisms.
- Does Laboratory Vortex supply the equipment?
- No. Laboratory Vortex is a discovery and request platform. Submitting a lab project helps identify equipment suppliers and service providers; you contract with them directly.