safety in the microbiology lab

Microbiological safety

The techniques and activities described on the website and the micro-organisms suggested present minimum risk given good practice. It is therefore essential that good microbiology laboratory practice is observed at all times when working with any microbes. Before any practical activity is undertaken a risk assessment should be performed to ensure there is minimal hazard to all concerned.
There are five areas for consideration when embarking on practical microbiology investigations which make planning ahead essential.

1. Preparation and sterilization of equipment and culture media.
2. Preparation of microbial cultures as stock culture for future investigations and inoculum for current investigation.
3. Inoculation of the media with the prepared culture.
4. Incubation of cultures and sampling during growth.
5. Sterilization and safe disposal of all cultures and decontamination of all contaminated equipment.

Good organisational skills and a disciplined approach ensure that every activity is performed both safely and successfully.

Protection

Food or drink should not be stored or consumed in a laboratory that is used for microbiology. No one should lick labels, apply cosmetics, chew gum, suck pens or pencils or smoke in the laboratory. Hands should be washed with disinfectant soap after handling microbial cultures and whenever leaving the laboratory. If hand contamination is suspected, then the hands should be washed immediately with disinfectant soap. To ensure that any wounds, cuts or abrasions do not get infected or infection is passed on, protect them by the use of waterproof dressings or wear disposable surgical gloves.