South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
General Laboratory Assistant (Blood Bank)
Company: South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
Location: Rustenburg, North West
Job Type: Full Time
About the Company
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is a non-profit organization recognized as one of the best blood services in the world. We provide an essential healthcare service to the people of South Africa, ensuring that blood and blood products are available to those in need.
Role Introduction
We are looking for a General Laboratory Assistant to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and collecting blood hampers, disposing of medical waste safely, and maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment. You will follow strict standard procedures to ensure the safety and quality of our service.
Key Responsibilities
1. Blood Hamper and Stock Management
- Prepare and collect blood hampers according to the daily schedule.
- Collect empty hampers from hospital wards and designated drop-off points.
- Check hampers for unused products and ensure seals are intact.
- Pack incoming blood and blood products into fridges, freezers, and platelet agitators.
- Organize stock daily based on expiry dates to ensure efficiency.
2. Waste Disposal
- Dispose of medical waste following safety protocols.
- Order and receive waste disposal supplies.
- Label and track waste containers using the internal computer system.
- Ensure all bio-hazardous waste is collected and removed by approved service providers.
- Maintain accurate documentation and manifests for all waste disposal activities.
3. Daily Laboratory Maintenance
- Prepare cleaning solutions and replenish test tubes in the lab.
- Decontaminate and clean laboratory equipment, including hampers, racks, and trays.
- Assist with cleaning blood spills immediately.
- Clean, disinfect, and defrost refrigerators, freezers, and water baths on schedule.
- Ensure all laboratory sinks and surfaces are disinfected daily.
4. Quality and Safety Compliance
- Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) strictly.
- Comply with Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) requirements.
- Help gather information to resolve errors or customer complaints when needed.
5. General Duties
- Assist supervisors and senior staff with other laboratory tasks as required.
- Complete the Laboratory Assistant training course within the required timeframe.
Requirements
- Education: Grade 12 (Matric) with Mathematics and at least one Science subject.
- Experience: No prior experience is required.
- Skills: Basic computer literacy, including MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Attributes: Attention to detail, ability to follow strict instructions, and a commitment to safety.
Application Deadline
Please submit your application by 18 February 2026.