Before beginning our experiments, all members of the team first went through an online laboratory safety course. This included watching training videos and completing a short test under the supervision of the team leader. The training covered essential skills such as correct pipetting and basic procedures for handling cell cultures. Following iGEM safety requirements, we used only the approved model strain E. coli and took care to avoid any release of microorganisms into the environment. In addition, we met with our institutional biosafety committee to further review and strengthen our lab practices. Throughout the project, we have worked according to these biosafety guidelines, and no safety incidents have occurred.

Our lab safety is overseen by three instructors who oversee our daily work. They conduct routine inspections to ensure the lab is kept clean and that items like used culture dishes and wastewater are properly handled and discarded. They also provide us with project-specific safety training so that every team member can confidently follow the required procedures. From the beginning to the end of each experiment, our instructors help us maintain good operating practices and ensure a safe and orderly lab.

In the lab, personal protective gear such as coats, gloves, and safety glasses should be worn at all times when handling cultures. Everyone needs to be familiar with the location and proper use of safety equipment, including eyewash stations and fire extinguishers. Clean hands are essential, so washing both before and after working with biological materials is required. Eating, drinking, or applying makeup in the lab is not allowed to avoid unnecessary exposure.
All samples must be clearly labeled with key details like name, date, and hazards. When handling liquids, take care to avoid splashing, creating aerosols, or dispensing too quickly. Biohazardous waste should always go into the designated containers and be disposed of according to lab rules. Needles should never be recapped by hand—use a recapping tool or the one-handed scoop method.
Before starting work, it's important to review safety data sheets for the microorganisms being used. Any spills, accidents, or possible exposures must be reported to a supervisor immediately. Keeping benches clean and uncluttered reduces both contamination risks and physical hazards. Pipetting by mouth is strictly forbidden, so always use pipette aids.
Work involving infectious or hazardous organisms should be carried out in a biosafety cabinet. All surfaces and equipment must be disinfected before and after use. Regular safety training ensures that everyone stays up to date with best practices, and knowing emergency procedures—such as exit routes and reporting steps—is expected before beginning any experiments.

General microbiology laboratory

Escherichia coli DH5α, BL21

Everyone working in the lab must always wear the proper protective gear, including a coat, gloves, and safety glasses, while carrying out experiments. If an accident occurs, the first step is to follow the reporting process，notify the supervising instructor right away and call the posted emergency number to start the response.

1.Everyone in the lab must wear proper protective gear—lab coats, gloves, and safety glasses at all times.
2.Before beginning any work, make sure you know where emergency equipment like eye wash stations, safety showers, and fire extinguishers are located, and learn how to use them correctly.
3.Eating, drinking, or applying makeup is not allowed in the lab to prevent accidental contact with hazardous materials.
4.Always follow the approved procedures for handling and disposing of chemical, biological, and sharp waste to minimize risks.
5.Keep your workspace clean and organized to reduce accidents and avoid cross-contamination.
6.If there's a spill, accident, or injury, report it to the lab supervisor immediately.
7.Only carry out experiments you are trained and authorized to perform, and work under supervision when required.
8.Use all equipment as intended, following the manufacturer's instructions and established safety guidelines.

We are pleased to note that our laboratory work was carried out smoothly, with no accidents or safety issues arising at any stage. From start to finish, even during the more challenging parts of the experiments, we carefully followed all safety rules and protocols. Looking ahead, our team will continue to uphold the same strict standards to ensure a safe and reliable environment for future research.