Biological Safety

Compliance with research utilizing biological material is monitored by the Institutional Biosafety Committee. For more information on the rules and regulations for compliance, go to Biological Research.

  • Keep lab materials in the lab! This includes pens, personal protective equipment, notebooks, electronics, keys, etc.
    • If you need to take something home, do not bring it into the lab.
  • Be aware of hazards before entering the laboratory.
  • The Safety Data Sheet should be available at all times.
  • Table including frequently used microbes and biosafety levels should be available at all times.
  • Use of moderately hazardous agents
  • Be aware of hazards before encountering infectious agent
  • Look for signs and symptoms of possible infections/diseases etc.

Differences compared to BSL 1

  • Specific training is required by personnel in handling pathogenic agents, competency testing is also done throughout the laboratory to make sure standards are being met.
  • Laboratory access is restricted
  • BSCs are used anytime an infectious aerosol or splash is being created or used.
  • Special practices are used (see pages 37-43)
  • Slight changes in required equipment
    • Containment use
    • Glove selection based on risk assessment
    • BSC use
  • Changes in work area/facility:
    • Self closing door
    • Required sink near exit
    • Windows to exterior are not permitted (if windows are present, they should be fit with screens)
    • BSC installation
    • Vacuum lines need liquid disinfectant traps
    • Required Decontamination plan