Diclofenac, as the only chemical among all that were used, is classified as a poison. The amount purchased for the project was kept in a poison cabinet outside of the student lab. Every amount used was recorded (as of September 20th, 54.55mg). After use, it was disposed of as Autoclave waste, and burned.
To reduce the chance of inhalation, all chemicals that were received in powder form were put into solution before further use.
To conduct laboratory work, the iGEM team was allowed to use BOKUs student microbiology lab. THE BSL-1 safety level of the lab was appropriate for all the organisms used.
All members of the lab team underwent mandatory safety training, including introductions into all the equipment available for use. Only students who attended additional training were permitted to handle the autoclaves. In case of uncertainty lab team members were provided with the opportunity to seek help from scientific staff present in adjacent labs.
Safety and data sheets for all the chemicals used were made available to all team members, with familiarization being mandatory before starting any work.
After each working day, all the utilized lab surfaced were sterilized using 70% Ethanol, while contaminated glassware was autoclaved. Non-reusable plastics were disposed separately from other waste, and autoclaved before being burned.
While working in the lab, protective equipment such as lab coats and gloves was mandatory. All protective equipment had to be left in the locker room when entering other parts of the building.
Food and drink were strictly prohibited in the lab space. Before entering and leaving the lab, team members underwent mandatory hand disinfection.
To provide first aid in the case of accidents, a first aid kit and emergency shower were provided next to the entrance to the lab, in addition to an eye shower integrated into one of the available sinks. A fire extinguisher and extinguishing blanket were also provided.
Access to the lab was restricted using access cards and keys.
Procedures involving carcinogens, such as gel electrophoresis, silver staining and SDS paging were conducted outside of the student lab, either at the dedicated electrophoresis room or at the Sauer lab.
Prior to every use, the gas-system was leak-tested using the built-in sensors. The gas burners used included additional safety features, such as automatic shut-off and electronic ignition. At the end of each day, the last to leave ensured that the gas system was shut off properly using the main valve located above the entry to the lab.