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an educational and innovation centre. Originally estimated to cost $20 million, the restoration project is now expected to require $24 million due to additional fi re damage and infl ation-related costs. Construction is slated to commence in 2025.
Take action now to prepare for tariffs
The second major issue set to impact UK laboratories and businesses is Trump’s increasing reliance on tariffs. UK businesses are being urged to take proactive steps now to mitigate the anticipated effects.
Trump’s proposed tariffs fall into two categories: high, targeted tariffs designed to pressure specifi c nations into action, which can fl uctuate unpredictably, and longer- term ‘sin’ taxes intended to dissuade US companies from purchasing goods from countries such as China, Canada, Mexico, and the EU. These latter tariffs are expected to cause prolonged market disruptions.
As a result, price increases linked to US tariffs and potential retaliatory measures will likely affect laboratory supply costs. To mitigate the impact on customers, laboratory suppliers are considering several strategies:
1. Engaging with US customers: Establishing discussions about potential tariff exemptions and setting expectations regarding specifi c product types
2. Modelling tariff impacts: Using trade data from the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) to forecast the effects of varying tariffs while awaiting further policy clarifi cation
3. Exploring duty management strategies: Once tariff impacts are better understood, suppliers can explore options such as processing reliefs, warehousing, and deferral schemes to manage duties more effectively
4. Considering tax implications: If 20% tariffs are introduced, they will infl uence VAT and other UK taxes, attracting increased scrutiny from HMRC
Even if much of Trump’s rhetoric on tariffs turns out to be bluster, uncertainty alone can significantly disrupt market activity. The mere anticipation of increased tariffs is likely to slow hiring and new orders from US laboratories. Consequently, GAMBICA members - who supply laboratory equipment - are actively seeking opportunities in alternative markets. Special export group meetings are being organised to focus on expanding sales in India and China.
The broader implications of these upheavals for the UK will be discussed in detail at GAMBICA’s annual conference on 11 March. The event will feature TV commentator Anand Menon and economist Lee Hopley, who will examine the potential effects on both domestic and international trade. Additionally, Josh Chapman from SLS will offer insights and predictions regarding UK laboratory sales.
A limited number of day places remain available for those interested in attending. To secure a spot, please contact Jacqueline Balian at
Jacqueline.balian@
gambica.org.uk
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www.labmate-online.com Industry report: Cost benefi ts of direct mercury analysis
Many laboratories routinely measuring mercury use a traditional dedicated mercury analyser utilising fl uorescence spectrometry CV-AAA or AFS or ICP-MS that are well suited for liquid samples especially those with low mercury levels. For other liquid and solid samples an additional sample preparation step is required such as microwave digestion. Because of the high volatility of mercury, these dissolution techniques can often lead to loss of analyte and poor recoveries if the optimum digestion technology isn’t used, possibly resulting in sample reruns, that can impact laboratory effi ciency, operator time, and the overall cost of analysis.
An industry report is available from Analytix that takes a closer look at the running costs of the Milestone DMA-80 Direct Mercury Analyser and how they compare against CV-AAS/AFS and ICP-MS. The study looks at the overall cost of analysis including sample preparation, instrument calibration, and running times and compares productivity between the different techniques with approved methods.
The report shows that the DMA-80 system offers a signifi cant cost saving of almost 90% per sample over traditional CV-AAS/AFS that could translate into a benefi cial return on investment particularly for laboratories with a high sample workload.
Contact Analytix for a copy of the industry report or for further details. More information online:
ilmt.co/PL/bjXO
Versatile autoclaves for superior steam sterilisation
Priorclave’s QCS range of autoclaves is one of the most versatile and cost-effi cient steam sterilisers available. What sets the QCS range apart is that the three standard cylindrical chamber sizes of 100, 150 and 200 litres provide 20% more loading capacity than sterilisers of the same capacity. This extra space enables the QCS range to accommodate taller or more usual items, avoiding the need to invest in larger, heavier and more costly rectangular chambered sterilisers.
From simple cycles to fully featured multi-programme operations, Priorclave’s exclusive Tactrol® 3 control unit allows unrivalled fl exibility and allows users to focus on other tasks, secure in the knowledge that it will automate the entire sterilising process from start to fi nish perfectly.
Feature packed as standard, every autoclave in the QCS range features a quick-seal single-action door fi tted with both thermal and pressure locks, whilst utilising Priorclave’s patented door retention device, altogether these prevent accidental openings at load temperatures above 80°C and pressures above 0.2bar. Non-tip shelves ensure all media remains secure throughout the loading and unloading process. Biomaster ™ anti- bacterial silver nano-technology is incorporated into external surfaces providing effective defence against bacteria and fungi, including MRSA. This coating also reduces the risk of microbial growth and cross-contamination. Every QCS features low external surface temperatures whilst in use. Inside the chamber, automatic free-steaming greatly improves temperature distribution by encouraging air removal. Powerful fans also blow cold air over the autoclave vessel reducing cooling times. The Tactrol® volume loss.
More information online:
ilmt.co/PL/6Lwl 63979pr@reply-direct.com
3 also enables a delayed start if required to protect loads sensitive to media
Optional features include load-sensed processed timing, where an internal probe ensures exact sterilisation times. Whilst Pre- and Post-cycle vacuum ensures air removal from diffi cult loads. When combined with pulsed free-steaming, this achieves excellent steam penetration.
63775pr@reply-direct.com
WWW.LABMATE-ONLINE.COM
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