Biological Spill

BIOLOGICAL SPILL

CAUTION: Biological spills outside the biological safety cabinets may generate aerosolized that can be dispersed in the air throughout the laboratory. Such spills are very serious if they involve agents that require Biosafety Level (BL) 3 containment. To reduce the risk of inhalation exposure in such an incident, occupants should hold their breath and immediately leave the laboratory. The laboratory should not be reentered to decontaminate and clean up the spill for at least 30 minutes. During this time the aerosol will be removed from the laboratory by the exhaust air ventilation system. Appropriate protective equipment is particularly important in decontaminating spills involving microorganisms that require either BL2 or BL3 containment. This equipment includes lab coat with long sleeves, back-fastening gown or jumpsuit, disposable gloves, disposable shoe covers, and safety goggles and mask or full face shield. Use of this equipment will prevent contact with contaminated surfaces and protect the eyes and mucous membranes from exposure to splattered materials.

Spill Involving A Microorganism Requiring BL 1 Containment

• Wear disposable gloves.

• Soak paper towels in disinfectant and place over spill area.

• Place towels in plastic bag for disposal.

• Clean up spill area with fresh towels soaked in disinfectant.

Spill Involving A Microorganism Requiring BL 2 Containment

• Alert people in immediate area of spill.

• Put on protective equipment.

• Cover spill with paper towels or other absorbent materials.

• Carefully pour freshly prepared 1:10 dilution of household bleach or other appropriate disinfectant onto

the spill, beginning at the edges and avoiding splashing.

• Allow a 20-minute contact period.

• Use paper towels to wipe up the spill, working from the edges into the center.

• Clean spill area with fresh towels soaked in disinfectant.

• Place towels in red plastic bag and dispose of with biohazardous waste.