Biosafety
Department of Chemical Engineering, IITH
Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs)
Scope: Bio-med ResearchBSL-2
Operation Protocol
- Turn on blower/lights. Check intake/exhaust are unobstructed.
- Run blower for 5 minutes before starting work.
- Disinfect interior with 70% ethanol (eliminates need for UV).
- Place only necessary materials inside. Do not block grills.
- Work at least 4 inches inside the air curtain.
- Adjust viewing window to recommended height (check alarms).
- Separate clean and contaminated materials to minimize movement.
- No open flames inside BSCs.
- If using bleach, follow up with sterile water/alcohol rinse to prevent corrosion.
- Turn off blowers/lights after decontamination.
UV Lamp Precautions
- Post warning sign: "CAUTION: Turn off UV before working."
- Never have UV on while operator is working.
- Stainless steel reflects UV, potentially causing harm outside the cabinet.
- Clean bulbs with alcohol (oil decreases efficiency). Check intensity monthly.
Microbiological & Cell Culture
Good Microbial Practices
- Limit lab access during experiments.
- Never pipette by mouth.
- No eating, drinking, or cosmetics.
- Change gloves frequently. Wash hands before leaving.
- Handle pathogens in BSCs.
- Do not recap needles. Use sharps bins.
Good Cell Culture Practices
Applicable to primate/human cell lines (BSL-2) and oncogenic viruses.
- Perform all work in Class II BSC.
- Use Vertical Laminar Flow (not horizontal).
- Mycoplasma testing recommended.
- Remove rings/watches to prevent contamination.
- Solid waste: Autoclave before leaving lab.
- Liquid waste: Chemically inactivate (bleach) or autoclave.
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Emergency Contacts
Health Center:101
Fire Station (Sangareddy):
08455 241877
99637 48770
Fire Station (Patancheru):
08455 242099
095810 12077