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Biosafety guidelines for sorting of unfixed cells
I Schmid1, J K Nicholson, J V Giorgi
1Department of Hematology and Oncology, University of California at Los Angeles. schmid@cyto.medsch.ucla.edu
This study provides essential biosafety guidelines for sorting unfixed, biohazardous cells using cell sorters. Adhering to these recommendations helps prevent laboratory personnel exposure to infectious agents.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Cytology
- Biosafety
- Laboratory Science
Background:
- Cell sorting instruments, specifically jet-in-air, deflected-droplet sorters, pose a risk of exposing operators to bioaerosols from unfixed, potentially biohazardous samples.
- Current practices may not adequately address the containment of infectious agents during cell sorting procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present comprehensive guidelines for the safe sorting of unfixed cells, including known biohazardous samples.
- To minimize the risk of operator exposure to infectious droplets and aerosols generated during cell sorting.
- To assist laboratories in obtaining approval for sorting high-risk samples.
Main Methods:
- Development of biosafety recommendations for sample handling, operator training, and personal protective equipment.
- Guidelines for laboratory facility design, instrument setup, and routine maintenance.
- Detailed methods for assessing aerosol containment performance of cell sorting instruments.
Main Results:
- Established a framework for safe cell sorting of unfixed and biohazardous materials.
- Provided practical recommendations for risk mitigation during cell sorting operations.
- Included validated methods for evaluating instrument containment effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Implementation of these guidelines enhances laboratory safety during cell sorting of biohazardous samples.
- Adherence to recommended practices can prevent personnel exposure to infectious agents.
- These guidelines support regulatory compliance and facilitate the safe use of advanced cell sorting technologies.
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