Use these videos to guide students through proper handling and cleaning in the dissection lab.
There are a few basic dissection lab skills that are important for students to know. Use these videos to help guide students through proper handling and cleaning in the dissection lab. Check back for new videos periodically.
Changing scalpel blades
Tips for success
- Use hemostatic forceps, dissection forceps, or pliers to firmly grip the scalpel blade.
- Lift up on the tail end of the blade.
- Slowly push the blade forward until it detaches from the handle.
- Dispose of the used blade appropriately in a designated sharps container.
- Tear the packaging off the tail of the new blade.
- Retain the packaging on the sharp end of the new blade and grip it there with the forceps.
- Slide the grooved end of the scalpel handle into the slotted opening at the tail of the blade until it locks into place.
Cleaning dissecting pans
Tips for success
- Separate vinyl pad from aluminum pan.
- Wash the top and bottom of both pad and pan with warm, soapy water.
- Use a clean cloth or paper towels to dry the pad and pan; allow to air-dry if needed.
- Replace vinyl pad inside aluminum dissecting pan.
Suit up for dissection
During dissection, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, chemical splash goggles or glasses, and lab coat or apron.
Free Dissection Guides and Resources
June 27, 2020
Help for teachers new to (or returning to) dissection labs. Dissecting preserved specimens plays an important role in biology education–but
2 Comments
Hello. Can you please tell me the proper way to clean AND store vinyl dissection pads in order to prevent mold, rust, etc.?
Hello! To store your Vinyl dissection pads, wash them down with warm water and soap, and ensure they are dried fully before storing away.