LBL05001
Containment Level One For BioLab Users
| Author: | Approved by: S. Thompson | SOP No. LBL05001 |
| Signed: | Signed: | Effective from: |
| Date: | Date: | Last edited: |
1. Purpose
Generally, under the Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 2014 any CL1 project being undertaken in the biolab must follow the procedures outlined in this document in conjunction with any procedures specified in the risk assessment for that project.
2. Scope
This relates to all CL1 projects.
3. Responsibilities
This applies to anyone carrying out these procedures as part of a CL1 project. The user should ensure that others do not inadvertently compromise the containment of GMOs.
5. Related documents
LBL06001 Project Risk Assessment Procedure for Lab Users Proposing New Projects
LBL06002 Risk Assessment Procedure for Lab Users Proposing Transport of GMOs Outside the Lab
LBL04006 Using the Autoclave for Waste Deactivation
6. Definitions
GMO - Genetically Modified Organism
GMM - Genetically Modified Micro-organism
CL1 - Containment Level 1
7. Procedures
7.1 Risk Assessment
A written risk assessment must be approved before work can commence on any CL1 project (see BioLab Usage Guidelines#Special GMO considerations for guidance on determining what is classed as CL1). The risk assessment procedure is detailed in LBL06001 Project Risk Assessment Procedure for Lab Users Proposing New Projects.
7.2 Worksite
7.2.1 All work with GMOs as part of a CL1 project must take place within the BioLab. The BioLab is equipped with door access control in order to enable restriction of access to only trained users when appropriate. An observation window is also present.
7.2.2 All work with GMMs as part of a CL1 project must be carried out on the wet work workbench (white surface, on the left as one enters the lab). This bench is impervious to water, resistant to acids, alkalis, solvents, disinfectants and decontamination agents and easy to clean.
7.3 Protective clothing
Suitable protective clothing should be worn. The BioLab Usage Guidelines#Use of PPE gives guidance on this matter. If suitable PPE is not available, the BSO should be informed immediately before any practical work is commenced.
7.4 Inactivation of GMMs
All waste (e.g. disposable gloves, cultures of GMMs) produced during a CL1 project must be sterilised using the on-site autoclave according to the standard procedure detailed in LBL04006 Using the Autoclave for Waste Deactivation. The user should pay special attention to ensure the autoclave has undergone the daily test procedure.
7.5 Safe storage of GMOs
GMOs should be stored in an appropriate area of the BioLab in such a way as to minimise the risk of contamination. The BioLab is equipped with door access control in order to enable restriction of access to only trained users when appropriate.
7.6 Transporting GMOs Outside the BioLab
A written risk assessment must be approved before any GMO may be transported outside the BioLab. The risk assessment procedure is detailed in LBL06002 Risk Assessment Procedure for Lab Users Proposing Transport of GMOs Outside the Lab.
8. Resources
The Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 2014 Guidance on Regulations (http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l29.htm)
