A Commitment to Responsible Innovation

Project Safety & Biosecurity

Safety First: All work for the NeuroSplice project was conducted under Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) conditions. We strictly adhered to the safety guidelines of our institutional biosafety committee and the iGEM Foundation. Our focus was on mitigating risks at every stage, from design to disposal.

1. Lab Compliance & Training Overview

Mandatory EHS Training Modules (Completed Prior to July 6th)

All wet lab members were required to complete full Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) training and lab compliance protocols, authenticated via their CalNet credentials:

Laboratory Safety (EHS 101)
Hazardous Waste Program Training (EHS 105)
Hazardous Materials Spill Response (EHS 106)
Biosafety in Laboratories (EHS 201)
Workplace Safety (EHS 502)
Radiological Hazards Awareness (EHS 404)
NIH Recombinant DNA Training & BUA Review
Building Emergency Plan & Chemical Hygiene Plan

Practical Application of Safety Principles

Chemical Hygiene & Waste Management
  • DNA, RNA, and TX-TL reagents were handled only in designated clean areas, following the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
  • All TX-TL reaction waste (tubes, tips, microplates) was disposed of in proper biohazard waste bins according to Hazardous Waste Program guidelines.
  • Bleach was used for bench and equipment decontamination, and spill response protocols were reviewed for immediate action.
Biosafety & Recombinant DNA Handling
  • Every DNA/RNA sample was treated as recombinant material under the Stahl Lab’s Biological Use Authorization (BUA).
  • Pipettes were clearly labeled and dedicated to recombinant work to prevent cross-contamination.
  • RNA oligos were handled under RNase-free conditions using sterile tips, adhering to BSL-1 practices.
PPE and Equipment Safety
  • Lab coat, gloves, and safety glasses were worn during every TX-TL setup and plate reader run, changing gloves between critical steps.
  • Optical instruments (plate reader, Nanodrop) were treated with caution, avoiding exposure to laser light (EHS 404 principles).
  • Thermomixer and centrifuge safety (balancing, stability) was followed according to manufacturer and EHS training.
Emergency & Responsible Conduct
  • Morgan Hall Emergency Plan, exit routes, and eyewash locations were reviewed before starting.
  • A team member was assigned as the daily safety monitor to ensure clear exits and stocked kits.
  • All DNA constructs and modifications were documented transparently and shared in the iGEM Registry for reproducibility and responsible conduct.