- Division of Research and Innovation Partnerships
- Office of Research Compliance, Integrity and Safety
- Laboratory Safety
- Biological Safety
Biological Safety
- 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.
- Most basic level
- Use of standard practice
- Minimal to no hazards
- Non disease causing
- No special practices needed
- 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
Contact Us
Shannon Stoker
Director and Research Integrity Officer
815-753-2882
sstoker@niu.edu
Lowden Hall, Room 301