Vital Biosafety Practices
Channel: Universität Bern
Date: 30/06/2021

You can minimize the risks at our university by following these safety practices. Before any activity with a biological agent, you must contact them for a risk assessment and authorization.

Biological agents can consist of or be contained in organisms such as viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria, genetically modified organisms, clinical material of human or animal origin, and more.

Organisms are assigned to one of four risk groups based on their characteristics. Biosafety Level 4 requires the highest containment standards and safety measures.

The safety measures are governed by four principles. The first is substitution: whenever possible, replace the biohazard with a safer alternative. The other principles concern technical arrangements, organizational practices and instructions, and personal protective equipment. Of course, all of this must be backed up by good microbiological practices.

Store biological agents in leak-proof containers or vials and in designated fridges or refrigerators. The containers must always be labelled with the name, the nature, and the acquisition date of the agent, as well as the name of the person responsible. Unlabeled containers must not be used and must be reported immediately to the Biosafety Officer.

Always keep containers closed, except for immediate use. Refrigerators and freezers containing biohazards must either be locked or located in a restricted area with controlled access. Keep records of the stock, check it regularly, and dispose of unneeded materials.

Biological waste should be avoided or kept to a minimum.If biological waste is generated, it must be inactivated by autoclaving or validated chemical inactivation procedures. After inactivation, remove or cross out any biohazard symbol. Label the biological waste and follow the university's disposal guidelines.

We want to protect your health and the environment.
We're here to make your workplace safer.

https://www.risiko.unibe.ch