Summer in the Lab: 5 Tips for Working Efficiently and Safely During Hot Weather

As temperatures rise outside, work in the lab continues as usual. However, even in a controlled environment, summer conditions can affect equipment, reagents, and the people working with them. At NBS Scientific, we’re here to help you keep your cool—both literally and figuratively. In this blog, we share five practical tips to help you maintain safety and efficiency during the warmer months.

1. Monitor storage temperatures of reagents

Many reagents and samples are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Regularly check if refrigerators, freezers, and incubators maintain stable temperatures. Consider adding extra temperature monitoring tools, such as data loggers.

2. Hydration in the lab: yes, but safely

A common issue during summer: not drinking enough water. Ensure staff stay hydrated, but keep drinks away from workbenches. Consider creating a designated “drink zone” just outside the lab.

3. Be aware of heat-generating equipment

Centrifuges, incubators, and PCR machines generate additional heat. Combined with high temperatures, this can lead to overheating or reduced efficiency. Check ventilation systems and consider scheduling sensitive work during cooler morning hours.

4. Summer break? A smart time for maintenance

Is your lab less active in the summer? This is the ideal moment for preventive maintenance. Think of calibrations, software updates, or a thorough cleaning of pipettes and lab robots.

5. Cool sample transport is essential

With higher outside temperatures, it becomes even more important to transport samples under controlled conditions. Use coolers with data logging or cryogenic solutions such as dry ice. At NBS Scientific, we offer various sample storage solutions that minimize evaporation.

Finally: take a moment to enjoy the summer
Whether you’re working full-time or following a summer schedule, it’s important to care for both yourself and your samples. Have questions about temperature-sensitive storage or safe sample management in the summer? Contact us. We’re happy to help.