Emergency procedure:
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS (First 30 minutes):
- Locate backup dry shipper (if available)
- Call emergency contact at supplier
- Prepare cool area for emergency transfer
- Gather clean canes and goblets
EMERGENCY TRANSFER (30-60 minutes):
- Fill dry shipper with liquid nitrogen (from backup source)
- Allow dry shipper to cool completely (5-10 minutes)
- Carefully transfer goblets/samples one at a time
- Work quickly but carefully
- Place dry shipper in cool, ventilated location
FOLLOW-UP (Within 4 hours):
- Contact alternative suppliers for emergency rental
- Arrange for temporary storage (backup dewar)
- Get failed dewar professionally inspected
- Document all actions taken
SAMPLE SAFETY:
- Samples remain viable at -150°C for 30+ days
- Even in failed dewar, you have time (emergency window)
- Don’t panic – samples are more resilient than you think
- Priority: Careful handling over speed
PREVENTION:
- Keep backup dry shipper (£300-600)
- Know your supplier’s emergency procedures
- Have contact numbers readily available
- Consider redundant dewar if critical samples