Biological Safety
Biological Safety
Overview
The use of Biological materials must only begin once an adequate Risk assessment has been performed and authorised.
All biological materials are covered under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and thus any material that is brought into the Chemistry building (either purchased or otherwise) must have a valid COSHH assessment form. The University has a “cradle to the grave” policy; approval must be sought from the University Biological Safety Committee (UBSC) before the introduction of new biological material.
Biological waste materials, including contaminated sharps and microbiological cultures, should be placed in clearly labelled containers and arrangements made for collection and disposal. It is a requirement that the Environment Agency is notified before any collection. Contaminated equipment must be autoclaved or disinfected appropriately before further use.
The academic supervisor has to ensure that the user receives relevant training in the use and disposal of particular biological materials.
Biological spill kits are available in all laboratories where GM work is undertaken. All workers in these laboratories should either be trained in their usage, or be supervised by somebody who has been trained. A code of practice for use of the kit is in each box. All events requiring the use of these kits must immediately be reported to the DBSC and an incident form submitted to the Departmental Safety Coordinator or Senior Administrator.
Genetic modification. All work concerning GMOs & GMMs should be submitted through the Department Biological Safety Coordinator (DBSC) for approval by the SBBS Biological Safety Committee.
Links
Departmental Policy (S-COP K)