The organisms we are dealing with are E.coli BL21 and E. coli DH5α. Both of them are in Risk Group 1 and can cause no disease in healthy adults. E.coli is the most studied gram-negative bacterium and a model organism in synthetic biology.
However, the engineered bacteria may be released into the real world. Although E.coli is nontoxic and nonpathogenic, it is not appropriate to release them into the environment. So we have strict roles with these genetically modified organisms. Everyone should wash their hands before and after lab work. The waste produced in the lab are well-categorized and disposed so that the engineered bacteria won’t get into the environment.
As for the experiments, the experiments are mainly in the molecular level, so the risks are caused by the reagents we used. For example, we need to use EB for electrophoresis and cadmium ions for CdS precipitation. So we wear two layers of gloves when dealing with EB and strictly recycle the sewage containing Cd ions when dealing with it. After collecting and sterilizing, the bio- or chemical wastes will be recycled by professional chemical recycling staffs in our institute respectively.
Before our research, we have asked each member to receive safety training through certain curriculum provided by our department. All of us have successfully acquired skills in waste disposal, accident prevention, fire procedures and cleanliness. During our research, we carried out experiments within the biosafety guidelines established by WHO. Each member strictly adhered to experimental procedures with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as lab coats and lab gloves.
The following figures show some of the facilities in our laboratory.
