Overview

Before starting any experimental work, all team members completed a web-based laboratory safety course. This included viewing a series of demonstration videos and successfully completing an assessment supervised by the team leader. Key areas of instruction included proper pipetting techniques and procedures for culturing cells. In compliance with iGEM Safety Policies, all work was conducted using the approved model organism E. coli, and strict measures were taken to prevent any environmental release of microorganisms. Further reinforcement of safety practices was provided through in-person meetings with our institutional biosafety committee. Our team has consistently followed the established biosafety protocols, and we are happy to note that no safety-related issues have arisen during the course of our laboratory work.

Biosafety Committee

Our biosafety oversight is managed by a committee of three experienced research instructors. They regularly inspect the laboratory to ensure all work areas meet cleanliness standards, with particular attention to the correct handling and disposal of used Petri dishes and liquid culture waste. In addition, these instructors deliver targeted safety instruction tailored to our project, ensuring every team member is equipped to follow protocols effectively. Their commitment extends throughout the experimental process, overseeing that both preparatory and concluding sanitation measures are thoroughly implemented to uphold a secure and orderly lab environment.

Safety Training

1. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE)—including lab coats, gloves, and eye protection—must be worn at all times while handling microbial cultures.
2. Ensure you know where safety equipment is located (e.g., eyewash stations, fire extinguishers) and understand how to operate them correctly.
3. Thorough handwashing is required both before initiating and upon completing any procedure involving biological materials.
4. Consuming food, beverages, or applying makeup is strictly prohibited within the lab to minimize risk of exposure.
5. Clearly label all samples and cultures with essential details such as identity, date of preparation, and specific hazards.
6. Use careful techniques to reduce aerosol generation—avoid splashing, rapid mixing, or uncontrolled dispensing.
7. All biohazardous waste must be discarded using approved containers and procedures as outlined in the lab’s disposal policy.
8. Never recap needles manually; instead, utilize a recapping device or the one-handed scoop technique.
9. Review relevant safety documentation (e.g., SDS) for each microorganism prior to beginning work.
10. Immediately inform your supervisor in the event of any spill, accident, or suspected exposure.
11. Keep workspaces tidy and free of clutter to reduce the risk of cross-contamination or physical hazards.
12. Pipetting by mouth is strictly forbidden; always use a pipette aid or bulb.
13. When working with infectious or potentially hazardous agents, perform all procedures within a certified biosafety cabinet.
14. Participate in periodic lab safety trainings and remain informed of current protocols and best practices.
15. Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols, including exit routes and reporting procedures, before commencing work.
16. All equipment and surfaces must be decontaminated before and after use with an appropriate disinfectant.

Work Areas

General microbiology laboratory

Microorganism

Escherichia coli K12, DH5α, TOP10, BL21, ECN

Risk Management Tools

All laboratory personnel are required to wear designated personal protective equipment—including a lab coat, gloves, and safety goggles—throughout all experimental procedures.

In case of an accident, ensure you are familiar with the reporting protocol: immediately contact the assigned instructor and use the posted emergency number to initiate the response process.

Safety Regulations

1. All personnel must wear correct personal protective gear—including laboratory coats, disposable gloves, and protective eyewear—at all times when inside the lab.
2. Before starting work, ensure you know where to find emergency apparatus such as eye wash stations, safety showers, and fire extinguishers, and understand how to operate them properly.
3. Eating, drinking, and applying cosmetics are strictly prohibited in the lab to avoid unintended contact with or consumption of harmful substances.
4. Adhere to established protocols for the safe handling and disposal of chemical, biological, and sharp waste to reduce potential hazards.
5. Maintain a tidy and well-organized workspace at all times to lower the risk of accidents and prevent cross-contamination.
6. Immediately notify your lab supervisor in the event of any chemical spill, accident, or personal injury.
7. Only perform procedures or experiments for which you have received authorization and appropriate training, and always work under supervision as required.
8. Operate all instruments in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and only for their designated uses, following all relevant safety procedures.

Reflection

We are glad to confirm that all laboratory activities were completed without any safety incidents or hazardous occurrences. Throughout the experimental process including both its demanding and successful phases strict adherence to safety protocols remained our highest priority. As we continue our work, we are dedicated to maintaining the same high level of biosafety rigor in all subsequent research and projects.