If a tube with infectious materials breaks during centrifugation in a centrifuge that does not have safety cups, how long should you wait before opening the centrifuge?

The correct answer indicates that waiting 30 minutes before opening the centrifuge is an appropriate safety measure if a tube with infectious materials breaks during centrifugation. This time frame is crucial because it allows for any aerosols or splatters created by the breakage to settle. When a centrifuge spins at high speeds, the contents can become airborne, potentially leading to exposure to infectious agents.

Waiting at least 30 minutes significantly reduces the risk of inhalation or contact with infectious aerosols and provides enough time for the environment to stabilize. Opening the centrifuge too soon risks the operator's safety and could lead to contamination of the workspace. This protocol is a standard practice in laboratory safety to ensure that the area is as safe as possible before any further actions are taken, like removing samples or cleaning up spills.