Identification and Classification
– Use universal biohazard symbols (☣) and clear signage to mark areas containing dangerous biological agents[1].
– Classify biological agents into risk groups based on their potential to cause disease:
– BSL-1: Low risk (e.g., Agrobacterium tumefaciens)
– BSL-2: Moderate risk (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae)
– BSL-3 and BSL-4: High risk – prohibited for most laboratory work[4]
Safety Precautions
– Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE):
– Lab coats, gloves, and eye protection
– N95 respirators for aerosol-generating procedures[1]
– Use biological safety cabinets (BSCs) for procedures that may create infectious aerosols[1].
– Implement strict hand hygiene protocols, washing hands frequently[7].
Handling and Storage
– Store dangerous biological substances in leak-proof, shatter-resistant containers[1].
– Use secondary containment, such as trays, for experiments and storage[7].
– Clearly label storage areas with specific hazards (e.g., “Carcinogens”)[7].
– Minimize quantities used and substitute less hazardous alternatives when possible[7].
Disposal and Decontamination
– Treat liquid waste with appropriate disinfectants (e.g., 10% bleach solution)[1].
– Autoclave solid waste at 121°C for 60 minutes before disposal[1].
– Use licensed biohazard contractors for disposal of high-risk materials[1].
Emergency Procedures
– Develop and practice spill response protocols:
1. Evacuate the area
2. Contain the spill with absorbent materials
3. Decontaminate using appropriate disinfectants[1]
– Maintain a spill kit with necessary materials for containment and cleanup.
Training and Documentation
– Provide regular training on biosafety procedures and emergency responses[7].
– Develop and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all work with dangerous biological substances[7].
– Maintain detailed records of all activities involving hazardous biological agents[7].
Remember, always conduct a thorough risk assessment before working with any dangerous biological substance and consult with your institution’s biosafety officer for specific guidance.
Read More
[1] https://ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/Documents/Chemical-Safety-Guide.pdf
[2] https://ehs.stonybrook.edu/programs/laboratory-safety/biological-safety/biosafety-risk-assessment-risk-groups.php
[3] https://www.baua.de/EN/Topics/Chemicals-biological-agents/Hazardous-substances/_functions/Publications-search_Formular?queryResultId=null&pageNo=0
[4] https://www.societyforscience.org/isef/international-rules/potentially-hazardous-biological-agents/
[5] https://www.aphl.org/aboutAPHL/publications/Documents/QSA-2021-Pack-Ship-Guidance-Biological-Substances-Job-Aid.pdf
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK225348/
[7] https://ehs.cornell.edu/research-safety/chemical-safety/laboratory-safety-manual/chapter-9-particularly-hazardous-3
[8] http://www.osha.gov/biological-agents