Introduction

Our team consistently believes that safety is a prerequisite and guarantee for the success of a project. Therefore, awareness of safety is implemented throughout the entire project. Our emphasis on safety is evident in the research into production environments, and the assurance of experimental safety.

Project Safety

Microbiological Safety

a) According to ATCC, the chassis organisms we have selected, such as Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and S.oneidensis MR-1, can be used in a BSL 1 laboratory. The general principles of microbiological and biomedical laboratory biosafety specify that BSL 1 is appropriate for microorganisms known to have no pathogenic effects on healthy adults.

b) E.coli Top10 and E.coli WM3064 are used in our experimental processes. Top10 is a preferred choice for cloning vectors, while WM3064 serves as a transfer vector tool. Our use of the bacteria strictly adheres to experimental operating procedures and laboratory safety guidelines.

Reagents Safety

All reagents are strictly used, stored in accordance with relevant regulations.

Working Environment Safety

Waste gases from the hardware are discharged after passing through filter membrane, and the UV lamp is installed at the gas outlet of the thermal power station to prevent the release of engineered bacteria. Used culture media can be sterilized using excess heat from the power plant to prevent the escape of engineered bacteria from residual culture media.

Lab Safety

Biosafety Laws in China

All of our project personnel strictly comply with the Biosafety Law of the People’s Republic of China implemented in 2021.

Training

The personnel in the project have all undergone training on relevant safety guidelines before conducting experiments. They have also participated in centralized training sessions on experimental skills and related precautions.

Basic Lab Rules

a) Before starting work, it is essential to clearly identify the location and operating procedures of fire extinguishing equipment, electrical switches, and other facilities. Familiarity with emergency response measures and procedures is also necessary.

b) When entering the laboratory, lab coats must be worn, and avoid wearing open shoes. Lab coats should be removed when leaving the laboratory. eanliness and orderliness in the laboratory, and promptly clean up or dispose of waste materials.

c) When conducting experiments that may pose a risk, appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn as per the situation. This may include wearing safety goggles, face masks, and protective gloves.

d) Smoking, eating, and sleeping are strictly prohibited inside the laboratory.

e) Maintain cleanliness and orderliness in the laboratory, and promptly clean up or dispose of waste materials.