Before we started our laboratory work, our team participated in a comprehensive safety briefing led by our advisors. This safety introduction, required by the GenTG (German law governing genetically modified organisms (GMOs)), covered essential aspects of working in an S1 laboratory. Biosafety level S1 includes low-risk biological research with organisms that do not pose risks to human health and the environment. The briefing addressed specific hazards, such as potential exposure to chemicals and biological agents, and outlined precautionary measures to mitigate these risks. We learned about proper waste disposal methods, sterilization techniques (such as autoclaving), emergency procedures, and protocols for handling accidents. Of course, we adhered to all regulations issued by our institution and local authorities regarding the safe handling, containment, and disposal of GMOs and other laboratory materials. Regular inspections of the laboratory ensured that all safety-related equipment, such as sterile workbenches, autoclaves, and sufficient disinfection were available and functioning.

In addition to the initial safety briefing, we organized a specialized laboratory workshop for all team members, providing hands-on experience in laboratory safety practices, including proper handling and disposal of GMOs. This workshop emphasized essential safety protocols, such as the use of protective equipment, sterile techniques, and maintaining a contamination-free environment. A key part of our approach was emphasizing the personal responsibility of each team member to ensure that no risks to human health or the environment arise from our laboratory work. We aimed to create a culture of safety where all team members consistently monitored their own and their teammates' adherence to safety protocols. Furthermore, before starting any genetic experiment, the potential risk was assessed by evaluating both the donor organism and the target organism. Experiments were only conducted if both organisms were classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) according to the FDA list, and if there were no foreseeable interactions between the donor DNA and the target organism.