Safe Project Design
Our work involved the use of 𝙀. 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙞 BL21(DE3) strain, which is a non-pathogenic strain and poses minimal hazard to human health and the environment. All active GM bacteria were killed after each experiment. An autoclave was used to ensure no GM bacteria would be leaked. The laboratories where the project was conducted were classified under Biosafety Level (BSL) 2, which means they are equipped to handle organisms with moderate individual risk, provided that all safety protocols are rigorously adhered to.
Safe Lab Work
According to the guidelines in 'Safety in Science Laboratory', edited by the Hong Kong Education Bureau, school teachers and lab technicians are the experts to turn to when students discover a hazard or risk. Our schools had organized safety training workshops to familiarize students with lab safety guidelines, especially those regarding the handling of GM bacteria.
All laboratory work was conducted in accordance with established biosafety protocols to ensure the safety of personnel and the environment. The following measures were implemented.
General Safety Practices
1. Risk Assessment and Agent Classification:
- A risk assessment was performed prior to experimentation.
- Our work involved the use of non-pathogenic 𝙀. 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙞 BL21(DE3) strain. Derived from the 𝙀. 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙞 B lineage, the 𝙀. 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙞 BL21 strain poses minimal hazard to human health and the environment, and is classified as a Risk Group 1 (RG1) agent. Consequently, all procedures were carried out under Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) containment.
Specific Precautions for 𝙀. 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙞 Culture
2. Use of a Class II Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC):
- All procedures involving bacterial culture, including transformation and plating, were conducted within Class II Type A2 Biological Safety Cabinets.
- BSCs were regularly checked and maintained to ensure they were functioning properly.
- All work surfaces were thoroughly sprayed and wiped with 70% ethanol before and after all procedures. The interior of BSCs were additionally sterilized with UV light.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Standard BSL-1 PPE was worn at all times within the laboratory. This included
- dedicated lab coat,
- disposable nitrile gloves, and
- safety goggles.
4. Handling Sharps and Waste:
- Sharps were disposed of in designated containers to prevent injuries.
- Proper protocols were followed for the disposal of biohazardous waste.
5. Chemical Safety:
- Chemicals were stored and handled according to their Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
