Chapter 5 Accidents and emergencies
School Science Laboratory Safety Regulations
5.3.2. Decontamination of microorganism spills The following sections guide users to deal with microorganism spills. a.
b.
c.
d.
For minor spillage liquid containing splashing onto a surface):
(for example, microorganisms
when a spills
small amount of gently, without
i.
The spill should be covered with a piece towel. Disinfectant (like Dettol or Lysol) over the spill and left to stand for at least 30 minutes.
ii.
Absorbents and any autoclaved before disposal.
broken
material
of cloth or paper should be poured
should
For major spillage (for example, when containers cultures of microorganisms are dropped on the splashing occurs):
be
with liquid floor and
i.
Do not inspect the spill or damage at very close range so as to avoid coming into contact with the aerosol cloud. If the spill is extensive, all persons in the room should leave the laboratory immediately.
ii.
Laboratory staff or teachers involved procedure must wear protective clothing.
iii.
The spill should be contained by covering with pieces of cloth or paper towels. Disinfectant should be applied concentrically, beginning at the outer margin of the spill area and working towards the centre. The materials may be cleared after at least 30 minutes.
iv.
Any clothing that has been affected by the spill should be removed immediately and autoclaved.
in
the
clean-up
Spillage due to breakage in centrifuges i.
If breakage occurs to centrifuge buckets and disinfection and autoclaving.
ii.
The centrifuge bowl removing any glass fragments
the tubes in rotor must
should
also
be
a be
centrifuge, removed
disinfected
Other guidelines i.
All breakages (for example, glass fragments) or damaged packages containing microorganisms should be picked up using forceps and properly disinfected before disposal.
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the for
after