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Pipetting Performance across Laboratory Personnel: A Comparative Study.
Ömer Özcan1,2, Patrick J M Grundel3, Annemieke C Heijboer1,2,4
1Endocrine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
The Journal of Applied Laboratory Medicine
|February 3, 2026
Summary
Laboratory personnel pipetting performance varies significantly with experience. Even experienced individuals may not meet ISO standards, highlighting the need for continuous training and assessment in accurate liquid handling.
Area of Science:
- Laboratory Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Accurate pipetting is crucial for reliable laboratory results, especially with small volumes.
- Operator variability in using piston-operated pipettes is a significant source of error.
- This study assessed pipetting performance across different experience levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of experience on pipetting accuracy and precision.
- To compare performance across various laboratory roles and training levels.
- To identify potential deviations from international standards (ISO).
Main Methods:
- 108 participants including students, PhD students, chemists, and technicians.
- Technicians grouped by manual pipetting frequency (minimal, moderate, high).
- Gravimetric analysis at 10 µL and 100 µL, plus a serial dilution task.
Main Results:
- Lower variability for 100 µL (0.3-0.8% CV) vs. 10 µL (1.4-5.9% CV).
- Students exhibited highest variability; performance improved with academic progression.
- 10-22% exceeded accuracy limits and 20-36% exceeded precision limits for pipetting tasks.
Conclusions:
- Pipetting performance is strongly linked to experience and task sensitivity.
- A notable percentage of participants, including experienced ones, failed to meet ISO standards.
- Continuous training and performance monitoring are essential for maintaining high pipetting standards.
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