P2 lab safety

[SpellForce]

Hi everyone!

I would like to ask for some advice concerning the work in P2 laboratory. It includes work with E. coli, Staphylo and Streptococcus.
I always disinfect workplace with 70% ethanol. I also clean the floor from time to time (not really often), with some detergent. However, I am mostly concerned about airborne contamination.

1) Is it possible to breath in some bacteria when I open the ependorf containing their suspension (mentioned bacteria)?
2) Should I put a mask when I open the incubator, since I feel its humidity and warmth (when taking and placing cultures)?
3) Why is it not advised to put things on the floor? Can bacteria travel on the floor and climb up the things?
4) Even though I wear gloves, is it possible to have bacteria on hands?
5) Can bacteria actually survive on any object or body part, if its dry and without nourishing media?

Thank you so much for your help and advice.
Cheers.

[CharonY]

It is a bit vague and there are different regulations in different countries. That being said, the pathogenicity of the genera you mentioned are quite diverse and some require more precautions than others. So there is no simple answer in terms of handling them. As a general rule you should clarify things with your local biosafety person, who actually should provide you with general and your supervisor who will give specific training. In most countries regulations require the PIs to submit a biosafety manual on which risk assessment is based on. You should try to get that or similar information.

 

Based on your questions I suspect that additional training would really benefit you. It does not matter, btw, if people around you do not care or are negligent. It is your job to keep yourself safe.

 

To your specific questions:

1) Aerosols are typically generated during liquid handling, which includes pipetting, but also centrifugation and similar actions (seals are not always 100%, though depending on volume the effects may be negligible). But it is not a good idea to open vials close to your face, as it may contaminate your or you may contaminate the sample with your breath.

2) If you are thinking about surgical facemasks, the offer basically no protection from bacterial contamination.

3) I am not sure about the context, but everything that is lower than the general airflow can be contaminated by things dropping on them. I.e. if you walk by things you generate air movement and stuff in the air or (more likely) from your body can get on it and contaminate it. Keeping things on the table can get them contaminated fairly easily.

4) Yes, e.g. due to improper use (while taking them off). Also one should always be aware when to wear gloves and when not to (e.g. instruments, switches) as you may just contaminate yourself afterward. Always wash hands. No exceptions.

5) Body parts are never too dry to allow bacteria to stay. On other objects the survival rate may vary, depending on relative humidity of the air, exposure to sunlight etc. Do not assume that contamination will go away (they do not).