Abstract: An ergonomic vial and tube rack is disclosed for retaining a plurality of vials or tubes containing fluid therein in inclined or vertical upright positions, features of which a mechanism for a variable incline angle; lid/cap receptacles positioned either on a shelf above the vial holders or inside the cover when in an open position; an ice or heat pack compartment or a sealed compartment underneath the vials and/or behind the vials for the limited temperature control; rack to rack pin-to-hole locators for stackability, ease of transportation, and storage; color-coding of vial racks for convenience and work-flow assistance; a transparent front panel or an opening in front of each vial receptacle for additional verification of reagent labels; a rack cover with rows of circular indentations, with or without a disposable lining, for use as shallow reaction dishes for qualitative or quantitative chemical assays, such as pH testing.