31 Laboratory Safety Manual Environmental Health and Safety G. Safety Practices for Specific Hazards The following additional safety practices apply to Iowa State University (ISU) laboratories where specific hazardous materials are used. Biohazardous Materials Biohazardous materials are of biological origin and may cause harm to humans, domestic or wild animals, or plants. When using these materials refer to the Biosafety Manual for details. • Use laboratory facilities appropriate to the required biosafety level. • Use appropriate containment equipment, such as biological safety cabinets. • Prevent or minimize the creation of aerosols. • Limit use of needles, syringes, and other sharps to avoid unnecessary exposure. For disposal, follow the requirements of the Sharps and Biohazardous Waste Procedure. • Ensure proper biohazard disposal and decontamination. • Complete autoclave performance checks monthly. • Ensure only properly trained personnel handle biohazardous materials. • Restrict access to Select Biological Agents, to authorized personnel. Additional Resources • Biohazardous Materials: An Introduction (online training) • Biosafety Cabinets: Safe Use and Maintenance (online training) Compressed and Liquefied Gases Compressed and liquefied gases pose significant chemical and physical hazards to laboratory users. Refer to the Gas Cylinder Safety Guidelines for more information. • Ensure gas cylinders and Dewar flasks are capped, secured, and away from heat sources at all times and capped when not in use. • Ensure hazardous gas (for example: corrosive, flammable, and toxic) quantities are below maximum allowed volumes and are stored in a ventilated cabinet, when required. • Transport cylinders and Dewar flasks on freight-only elevators where possible, to avoid potential exposure to passengers. • Do not ride with gas cylinders or Dewar flasks in elevators. Place a sign on the cylinder or flask.
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