Biological Safety Program

Biological Safety establishes safe work practices for laboratory employees who handle or may be exposed to biological materials, potentially infectious agents, human blood or other potentially infectious materials, cultures, specimens, and biological waste. The program addresses hazard identification, risk assessment, containment, personal protective equipment, biological safety cabinets, safe handling and storage, labeling, decontamination, disinfection, sharps safety, and waste disposal.

Employees must understand the hazards associated with their work and follow established procedures to prevent exposure, contamination, spills, releases, and cross-contamination. Proper hand hygiene, appropriate PPE, safe use of laboratory equipment, effective housekeeping, and suitable containment methods are essential. Biological Safety also addresses spill response, exposure incidents, emergency procedures, employee training, and documentation to help protect laboratory personnel and maintain a safe working environment.