Final answer:
When second fuel samples are contaminated, safety and contamination protocols need to be followed, including documenting the contamination, comparing results with peers, disposing of the samples properly, and consulting with a lab supervisor for next steps.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your second fuel samples are contaminated, you should immediately follow your lab's safety and contamination protocols. Since these samples could be a potential biological hazard, it is necessary to handle them carefully. First, document the contamination by noting what type of bacteria or pathogen is present if known, along with the extent of the contamination. Then, compare your results with those of your peers to identify if contamination is a widespread issue within the lab or isolated to your samples.
Contaminated samples typically need to be disposed of according to the lab's hazardous waste disposal procedures. Ensure that you wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to BSL2 containment practices throughout the disposal process to prevent any risk of infection or further contamination.
In instances where contamination may have implications for the integrity of a research study, it’s important to discuss the next steps with your lab supervisor. This might include repeating the experiment or adjusting the experimental design to prevent future contamination. Pre-enrichment steps to promote bacterial growth should be taken with caution as well, considering that having a contaminated sample can affect the outcomes of your lab results.