86 METHODS OF CULTIVATION OF BACTERIA. 



autoclave for a shorter period, and the tubes thoroughly washed 

 out. Besides a basin of mercuric chloride solution for infected 

 apparatus, etc., there ought to be a second reserved for the 

 worker's hands in case of any accidental contamination. When, 

 as in public health work, a large number of tubes are being daily 

 put out of use, they may be put into an enamelled slop-pail, and 

 this when full is placed in the steam steriliser. 



A white glazed tile on which a bell-jar can be set is very con- 

 venient to have on a bench. Infective material in watch-glasses 

 can be placed thus under cover while investigation is going on, 

 and if anything is spilled the whole can be easily disinfected. 

 In making examinations of organs containing virulent bacteria, 

 the hands should be previously dipped in i-iooo mercuric 

 chloride and allowed to remain wet with this lotion. No food 

 ought to be partaken of in the laboratory, and pipes, etc., are 

 not to be laid with their mouthpieces on the bench. No label 

 is to be licked with the tongue. Before leaving the laboratory 

 the bacteriologist ought to wash the hands and forearms with 

 i-iooo mercuric chloride and then with yellow soap. In the 

 case of any fluid containing bacteria being accidentally spilt on 

 the bench or floor, i-iooo mercuric chloride is to be at once 

 poured on the spot. The air of the laboratory ought to be kept 

 as quiet as possible. 



