SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS TAKEN TO ENSURE OUR SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS TAKEN TO ENSURE OUR SAFETY
Before beginning lab work, all members completed several precautionary measures (which will be elaborated upon). Additionally, all members were made aware of any harmful reagents that were used during wet lab work (this includes DNA isolation reagents, PFAS, amongst other chemicals). These potential risks were taken care of through our safety measures and they will be explained throughout the rest of this page.
Before completing any work in the lab, all members underwent lab safety training. This included learning about protocols on acting upon spills and other accidents, disposal of hazardous and biological wastes, and safely handling various chemical reagents. The training also emphasized the importance of sterile conditions, antiseptic technique, regular equipment checks, and understanding the risks that come with working in different biosafety levels. This allowed us to complete our experiment with minimal risks for ourselves and the environment.
We constantly used PPE that included lab coats, gloves, and goggles to minimize exposure to any potential contaminants or substances. This was done to keep the researchers free from contaminants and the materials free as well.
Because non-pathogenic strains are less harmful, our team decided to use that instead. However, even if they’re less harmful, they were still handled with care in order to prevent contamination of the samples. Standard microbial safety practices were applied (this includes working in a sterilized environment and avoiding contact with open wounds and more). In addition, all materials that came in contact with the E. coli strains are disposed of appropriately via biohazard containers to prevent cross-contamination and to maintain a clean workspace during the remainder of the experiment.
Handling PFAS is very high-risk. Not only is the persistence of chemicals high in the environment, but also due to certain health hazards involved in exposure to humans. We mitigated this risk by setting strict protocols that allowed PFAS access to trained adults only, who have completed advanced safety training courses in hazardous material management. The people were also knowledgeable in the proper storing, handling, and disposal of PFAS to prevent lab and general environmental contaminants. We also introduced special PPE use, such as chemical-resistant gloves and face shields, with every procedure involving PFAS.