Specimens for dissection, dissecting tools and equipment, and chemicals used in biology must be kept under locked storage. When field materials such as pond or slough water, plants, soil, or insects are collected, assume that they are contaminated by pathogens and treat them as such. Known pathogens should not be cultured. Exposure plates and culture plates with unknown bacterial colonies must be treated as though they are contaminated by pathogens until it can be shown otherwise. Make sure that autoclaves are in good operating condition.
Adequate ventilation is essential when working with specimens preserved in formalin or formaldehyde.
Proper care must be given to animals kept in a classroom. Refer to a good animal care book, if needed. Chemicals should be stored in a locked area, to which access is restricted. Be prepared to handle all chemical spills rapidly and effectively. Many plants may contain toxins or allergens.