Automatic pipettor performance checks?

[UKCAT]

Aside from sending these pipettors off for an annual calibration, it is my understanding that periodic performance checks are necessary, quarterly, or at least every six months. Does everyone do this-by first determining the ambient air temperature, water temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, then using the Z factor chart to calculate the SD and %CV?? Seems like alot to do quarterly??

[David Saikin]

I just use gravimetric (weight) . . . I have not gotten involved with the barometric pressure, temperature, etc. The FDA has never had a problem with my protocol.

[Art Temple]

Our lab is currently updating the recalibration of pipettes process. We use a gravimetric method involving a Mettler balance. We do not address water temperature, barimetric pressure, etc. A homegrown excel spread sheet does our calculations and works well. We currently do pipette checks twice a year. AABB now suggests quarterly pipette recalibration in the 16th Technical Manual. Our new policy will address that change. It seems like we do a lot of quartely checks on equipment etc. But while it takes time, it is important. Having reliable equipment and staying in compliance is important for patient care as well as regulatory reasons.