Team:Paris Saclay/Safety

Safety

Safe Project Design

Our project uses strains and reagents that are used in biosafety level 1 laboratories. We use non-pathogenic derivatives of E. coli strain (in the event of accidental or otherwise release, the health risks are minimal). Our BioBricks are not supposed to confer a pathogenic attributes to E. coli, and there is no data to suggest that they could have any detrimental effects on the environment. At that level, there are no special precautions required, other than those specified for work in laboratory.

Our project also involves regular use of BET, a DNA-intercaling agent known to cause cancer, and the use of UV light for visualization of electrophoresis gel. We wear gloves and a coat to manipulate BET and an appropriate glass for UV. To manipulate our chemistry products, we use nitrile gloves, glasses and coat. We must prepare culture with antibiotics, which could be harmful to humans only in large doses. We also work with Bunsen burner to maintain a sterile environment, which do involve having an open flame on the lab bench.

Safe Lab Work

Students participating in this project received safety and hygiene training to begin the project. The safety training consisted of a presentation covering the various aspects of safety found in molecular biology laboratories. Students were also supervised by instructors throughout the duration of the project. When it is necessary, gloves, glasses and other appropriate personal protective equipment is worn during experiments. The laboratory is equipped in case of fire.