Decontamination for Laboratory Biosafety

Overview

Robert M. Rioux and Zhifeng Chen, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA

Decontamination is essential for laboratory biosafety, as the accumulation of microbial contamination in the laboratory can lead to the transmission of disease. The degree of decontamination can be classified as either disinfection or sterilization. Disinfection aims to eliminate all pathogenic microorganisms, with the exception of bacterial spores on lab surfaces or equipment. Sterilization, on the other hand, aims to eliminate all microbial life. Different methods are available which include chemicals, heat, and radiation, and once again depend on the degree of decontamination, as well as the concentration of the contaminating microorganisms, presence of organic matter, and type of equipment or surface to be cleaned. Each method has its advantages and cautionary measures that need to be taken to avoid hazards.

Procedure

1. Chemicals

Liquid Chemicals
Liquid disinfectants are widely used for lab decontamination. The effectiveness of liquid disinfectants depends on a number of factors, such as the chemical nature of the disinfectant, concentration and quantity of disinfectant, contact time, and temperature. Remember, no liquid disinfectants are applicable in all situations. Make sure to select suitable disinfectants according to the detected microorganisms, using the following criteria:
a. Type of contaminating mi

Application and Summary

To avoid infection transmission and maintain biosafety in the lab, periodic decontamination in the lab is important. Three methods are available including chemical, heat, and radiation. Each method has its own strength and suitable applications. Awareness of the type of microorganism in the laboratory environment is useful for selection of a suitable decontamination method. Appropriate safety protocols should be in place during the decontamination procedure.

References

Center for Disease Control. A Guide to Selection and Use of Disinfectants. (2003)
Biosafety: Decontamination Methods for Laboratory Use, 2016, Blink, University of California, San Diego. at http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/research-lab/biosafety/decontamination/#Vapors-and-gases
Disinfectants and Sterilization Methods, 2008, Environmental Health & Safety, University of Colorado Boulder. at https://ehs.colorado.edu/resources/disinfectants-and-sterilization-methods/