Why is it important to inspect tubes for cracks before centrifugation?

Inspecting tubes for cracks before centrifugation is crucial primarily to prevent aerosol generation. When a centrifuge operates, high speeds create forces that can rapidly separate sample components. If a tube has cracks, the centrifugation process may cause the contents to leak, leading to aerosol formation. This poses significant health risks, including potential exposure to infectious materials, harmful substances, or biohazards. By ensuring that tubes are free of defects, the likelihood of aerosol generation is minimized, thereby maintaining a safer laboratory environment for personnel.

Maintaining cleanliness, avoiding sample loss, and enhancing performance are also important considerations in laboratory procedures, but they are secondary to the critical need for safety regarding aerosol exposure. A tube cracked during centrifugation can compromise not just the specific sample, but also the surrounding environment, making the examination of tubes a foundational practice in ensuring safe centrifugation protocols.