I agree with all that Gayle said. We have successfully used L shaped areas
since the early seventies with little or no problem.  In the microtomy room
we have 8 peninsular benches, 4 on each side of the room which run at right
angles to the bench.  All face the windows so that they get good natural
light.  Chairs are also very important as are foot rests if staff think they
need them.  I have always stood to cut but most of our staff now sit.

Bill Sinai
Laboratory Manager
Tissue Pathology
ICPMR
P.O. Box 533
Wentworthville NSW 2145

----- Original Message -----
From: "Gayle Callis" 
To: ; 
Sent: Friday, September 20, 2002 3:40 AM
Subject: Cutout countertops for microtomy, some thoughts


> Jan's suggestion for an L shaped countertop (or modular counter) is
> superior rather than a cut out, curved area, if that is what you have in
> mind.  We had curved cutout tables for microscopy, and also a desk with
> this design and I must admit, I came to dislike it intensely.  We lost a
> good deal of flat work area where it was cut away, and and something about
> working within that curved area that tended to create a confined area - at
> least for me - taller than some.  This might work well for one person, but
> not for others.  You need to keep in mind your other technicians or if you
> ever leave for other employment.
>
> It is imperative you try this design before a permanent curved cut out
area
> you are forever stuck with using. You can also do the same with an L
shape,
> a mobile typewriter table was a good test for us. albeit, not very
stable -
> waves washing over sides if jostled.
>
>  The L shape, particularly if it is a modular counter to allow the "L" to
> be moved plus drawers can be added which give it stability weight and
extra
> storage, plus have lock down wheels.  This will allow either a right side
> or left side (for left or right handed people), is more versatile and
> certainly more comfortable.   This is what I am looking at for the next
> cutting area design, and could even do it now - to increase work area
space
> and mobility.
>
> Jan is absolutely correct, buy the BEST chair possible, one that swivels
> with great ease and fits your back, height, totally adjustable.   Chairs
> with pneumatic adjustable heights are superb, taller ones are used here
for
> cryostat work, we can work all day at cryostat without neck/back/arm/hand
> stress.
>
>
>
> >
> Gayle Callis
> MT,HT,HTL(ASCP)
> Research Histopathology Supervisor
> Veterinary Molecular Biology - Marsh Lab
> Montana State University - Bozeman
> 19th and Lincoln St
> Bozeman MT 59717-3610
>
> 406 994-6367 (lab with voice mail)
> 406 994-4303 (FAX)
>
> email: gcallis@montana.edu
>
>