Keeping our laboratory safe and compliant is our top priority. Our unit manages biohazard risk assessments, safety audits, and emergency response plans that surpass OSHA, CDC, and BMBL guidelines.
Biosafety & Chemical Safety
We take a comprehensive approach to safety, covering both biological and chemical hazards. Our Biosafety and Biosecurity Manual outlines procedures for handling biological materials safely, while our Chemical Safety Program ensures proper storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
- Risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines tailored to biological and chemical risks.
- Training & compliance programs to keep staff informed and up to date.
- Emergency protocols for spills, exposures, and other incidents.
Incident Reporting & Emergency Response
Quick reporting of incidents, near misses, and spills is essential to maintaining a safe laboratory environment. Our Incident Response Program provides clear protocols for handling various emergencies, including medical incidents that require first aid or emergency contact assistance, spill response procedures for both biological and chemical materials, and critical safety measures for active shooter situations and shelter-in-place events.
Respiratory Protection Program
For areas with airborne hazards, our Respiratory Protection Program ensures that respirators are properly selected and fit-tested, that personnel undergo medical evaluations to confirm safe use, and that they receive training on how to wear and maintain their equipment correctly.
Packaging & Shipping Guidelines
Safe transportation of infectious substances is critical. We offer 6.2 Hazardous Materials Shipping Training for in-house employees and our supporting sentinel labs. Our in-house trainer is also available to answer any questions about compliance and best practices.
| Category A | Leakproof primary container, secure secondary packaging, Cat A certified shipping box | UN 2814/2900 label, DOT/IATA-compliant shipping papers | Must withstand 95 kPa pressure |
| Category B | Leakproof primary container, secure secondary packaging | UN 3373 label, “Biological Substance, Category B” | Rigid outer packaging required,
pressure compliance for liquids |
| Dry Ice | Ventilated outer container to allow gas release | “Dry Ice” label with net weight in kg,
UN 1845 label | Must not fully seal the container to prevent pressure buildup |
Visitor Safety & Compliance
We welcome approved visitors, but please keep the following safety guidelines in mind:
- All visitors must be accompanied by an approved PHL employee at all times and comply with posted PPE requirements.
- Depending on the area, required PPE may include lab coats, gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection in some high-risk zones.
- Visitors under the age of 18 are not permitted in laboratory spaces.
- Additional precautions may be required for immunocompromised individuals or pregnant women—please self-identify for specialized guidance.
