The Nanobuddies have safety at the top of our mind when working in the PC2 lab. Each member had to complete a few online safety modules even before setting foot into the lab as well as an in person lab safety induction. Our lab also has a designated laboratory manager! So if we run into any trouble or safety concerns, we know who to contact.
While our project does not involve any dangerous organisms, the lab space is a shared area. So we also have to be aware of other potentially pathogenic strains people are working on while keeping our colleagues safe.
Lab entrance with key card access door lock system and contact details of laboratory manager and first aid officers.
Maintenance certification on centrifuge. These certifications are on all appropriate lab equipment.
PC2 lab certification on the lab entrance, sign reads: “PC2 Certified Facility”.
The lab we use is a certified PC2 space with regular maintenance checks on the equipment to ensure we are always in a safe environment. However, we also need to upheld safe work practices so we are thoroughly protected and no microorganisms escape the lab.
Safety measures in the lab such as the green zone, sink to wash hands, shower, and spill kit.
Disinfectants
We spray 80% ethanol and F10SC on any surfaces labwork is completed on such as the benches to ensure everything is sterile.
Enclosed shoes
Non-absorbant enclosed shoes must be worn in the lab to prevent chemical or biological spills from damaging our feet or being carried out of the lab.
Green zone
Designated sterelised areas are marked in the lab with green tape so items that we want to take out of the lab (e.g. lab notebook) are uncontaminated. Notably, gloves cannot be worn when interacting with items inside the green zone.
Spill Kit
The kit contains chemical absorbents, additional personal protective equipment (e.g. eye shield), and a caution spill sign to contain and clean up any accidental chemical spills.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Lab gowns, safety glasses, and gloves are worn immediately when we enter the lab. Under no circumstances are these taken off unless we are interacting with items in the green zone.
Washing Hands
We must wash our hands before exiting the lab even if we were wearing our gloves the whole time to ensure our hands are uncontaminated.
Shower and Eye Wash
In the unlikely event of a toxic or corrosive chemical or biological agent entering our eyes or body, we have access to a shower or eye wash station to decontaminate.
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