Health and Safety
Our team has been working in the Molecular Biology Research laboratories in the School of Bioscience at Cardiff University. Research carried out in these laboratories includes plant cell biology, basic microbiology, molecular biology and genetic engineering.
Before beginning our work, we were given a health and safety briefing by our supervisor (Geraint Parry) which allowed us to appreciate any potential risks associated with the lab side of our project.
At our safety induction, these were the main hazards discussed;
Procedural risks:
Use of group 1 microorganisms - Escherichia coli and Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Handling of hot liquids
Use of gel electrophoresis equipment
Storage of samples in the -80 °C freezer
Use of top loading autoclave
Hand held UV source
Use of sharp equipment
Use of centrifuges
Chemical risks:
Use of strong acids and bases
Use of chemical mutagens
Use of phenolics
Use of flammable chemicals around open flame source
Use of liquid nitrogen
Use of toxic chemicals
Experimental design to reduce risk
For cloning/movement of genetic material we have used a group 1 microorganism, a non-pathogenic strain of E.coli - DH5α
Transformation of bacteria was carried out using a heat shock approach rather than the more dangerous electroporation procedure
Unusual experiments/safety issues
The use of the chemical B-ME during His-tag purification of the TSHantag. B-ME is a highly toxic and corrosive chemical which is capable of damage to internal organs if inhaled. Any work involving B-ME was carried out within a fume cupboard
Infiltration of plants with Agrobacterium tumefaciens was carried out in an isolated work space to avoid unintended contact between Agrobacterium and other plants within the lab
The use of liquid nitrogen involved careful handling and disposal within a fume cupboard
