Last Revised: February 07, 2025
The goal and purpose of the Biosafety Program is to protect all employees, students, the public, and the environment from contamination with or exposure to hazardous biological agents or materials (biohazards) being used at the University of Pennsylvania.
The Penn Biosafety Manual provides a practical overview of proper work practices and the requirements for regulatory compliance with laws and guidelines governing proper use, containment and disposal of biological hazards.
The University of Pennsylvania's Biological Safety Manual is undergoing continuous revision and modification. Please send suggestions for improvements to: Biosafety Manual Suggestions.
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Procedures for a Biological Spill Cleanup
- Isolate area using caution tape if needed, closing doors, etc.
- Do not allow people traffic through area.
- Make up a fresh batch of 10% bleach.
- Wear appropriate PPE for clean-up. (Gloves, face shield or safety glasses, foot covers, lab coat or gown.)
- Using forceps or a pan and brush, remove sharps and put into a sharps container.
- Surround spill with 10% bleach.
- Cover the spill with absorbent material (paper towels, absorbent pads, etc.)
- Soak absorbent material with bleach.
- Allow the soaked material to sit for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the size of the spill.
- Have a red bag available, scoop up the absorbent material and place into the red bag.
- After all material is cleaned up, wipe down the area with more bleach.
- If a spill on floor, mop with soap and water.