Biosafety
Biosafety refers to the application of safety precautions that reduce the risk of exposure to a potentially infectious agent and limit contamination of the work environment and, ultimately, the community.
If you are a Principle Investigator doing research that involves the use of recombinant DNA, biohazardous materials and biological toxins you must complete a Biological Use Authorization (BUA) and submit it to the Institutional Biosafety Committee for review and approval before commencing use of the qualifying agent.
The Bloodborne Pathogen Program and Hepatitis B Vaccination Form are available at the SJSU Occupational Health and Safety Programs website.
Questions about this process can be addressed to biosafety@sjsu.edu
Biosafety Levels
SJSU has Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) and Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) labs on campus. Each biosafety level has its own specific containment controls that are require specified laboratory practices, safety equipment and/or facility construction.
Biosafety Level 1
Microbes here are not known to consistently cause disease in healthy adults and present minimal potential hazard to lab workers and the environment. An example of a microbe that is typically worked with at a BSL-1 is a nonpathogenic strain of E. coli.
Specific considerations for a BSL-1 laboratory must include, at a minimum, the following lab practices and facility construction:
- Standard microbiological practices are followed
- Work can be performed on an open lab bench or table
- Personal protective equipment (lab coats, gloves, eye protection) are worn as needed
- A sink must be available for hand washing
- The lab should have doors to separate the working space with the rest of the facility
Biosafety Level 2
BSL-2 builds upon BSL-1. If you work in a lab that is designated a BSL-2, the microbes there pose moderate hazards to lab workers and the environment. The microbes are typically indigenous and associated with diseases of varying severity. An example of a microbe that is typically worked with at a BSL-2 laboratory is Staphylococcus aureus.
In addition to BSL-1 considerations, BSL-2 laboratories have the following containment requirements:
- Access to the laboratory is restricted when work is being conducted.
- Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn, including lab coats and gloves. Eye protection and face shields can also be worn, as needed.
- All procedures that can cause infection from aerosols or splashes are performed within a biological safety cabinet (BSC) .
- An autoclave or an alternative method of decontamination is available for proper disposals.
- The laboratory has self-closing doors.
- A sink and eyewash are readily available.
Additional Resources
Biohazard Decontamination Guidelines [pdf]
