25Aug2011

All is progressing well with the GC-ECD method. The method is adding a calibration for PCB-180 and samples are being checked for contamination from the roto-vap systems.

The roto-vaps have been cleaned and are now being used to reduce samples in preparation for GC-ECD analysis.

I have updated the spreadsheet with the local calibration settings, e.g. updated retention times, cal table, etc.

I am installing the software to allow computers to cache documents and syncronize files as there is a latency problem ttrying to send files to the virtual machine. This will minimize some of the LIMS training, but plans are to cover input of samples, and batch preparation, so when files are synchronized they can just be linked to the appropriate batch.

There has been some minor consternation over my leaving on September 1st but I'm not too sure what an additional day or two would accomplish. I have tried to put to rest any concerns but showing them all is going well so far. I think from talking with several folks here that training is the biggest issue, and the lab personnel just need to have someone come over solely to train. Training in the use of the all the features in chemstation, using Excel to analyze data, LIMS, and all other associated computer related items, e.g. data management, archiving, etc. is warranted. The lab personnel have a good basic skill set but some of the items outlined above seem to cause them a bit of concern.

A french language version of LIMS is highly recommended for the CERES lab on the VM. Most here can speak a bit of english, but for routine use french is the preferred language. This issue has been voiced several times and should be one of the first issues addressed. LIMS being in english is a big concern for several of the lab staff and I see LIMS tasks being pushed off to the best english reader/speaker.

TAH