Electrical Supply and Back-up Power Requirements in LPA Facilities

Importance of Electrical Supply and Backup Power in the Line Probe Assay (LPA) Facility

• Reagents used in LPA are to be stored at 4°C or -20°C. Hence, require uninterrupted electricity supply/ backup power.
• Amplification and hybridization procedures must be conducted under closely monitored temperature conditions.
• Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) connection is required during PCR amplification and use of the automated hybridization systems to avoid interruption of the procedure and subsequent loss of results.

Features of Electrical Fittings, Wiring, Power Points, Sockets, Fixtures and Electrical Boxes in the LPA Facility

• All the electrical fittings in the LPA laboratory areas should be suitable for clean room application and sealed (all conduits, outlets) with silicon sealant, leak-proof and capable of withstanding chemical exposures during fumigation.
• Necessary wiring and power points (at least six in each room) should be provided for all equipment.
• Modular type, power points of 5A/15A required at various locations on the wall as per placement of equipment.
• Power backup of about 125 KVA capacity is required for LPA laboratory.
  • Provision should be made for backup power supply to the critical components and equipment through a UPS and diesel power generator set.
• There should be two outlets, one for direct line and one for UPS backups, planned for each lab equipment.
• The sockets meant for UPS should be screen printed as (UPS) for ease of operation and identification. Marked wires and cables used should be copper wire of standard make (ISI marked) and manufacturer.
• Light fixtures should be placed flush with roof, with gasket or otherwise sealed with silicon sealant.
• Accessibility for replacement of light fixtures should be provided from the roof side.
• Circuit breakers must be able to accommodate the electrical demand needed to operate the various laboratory equipment for LPA.
• All electrical boxes and wiring should be certified to avoid surges that might render the equipment inoperable.

Resources

• Molecular Detection of Drug-resistant Tuberculosis by Line Probe Assay.

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