The March 2023 UW Biosafety Manual is now online
An updated March 2023 version of the UW Biosafety Manual is now available online. The changes made to the manual were limited to administrative updates, including updating web hyperlinks and minor…
National Biosafety Month 2022: Substitute with safer alternatives
During National Biosafety Month in October, EH&S is encouraging labs working with biohazards to identify hazards that could be substituted with a safer alternative to reduce the potential for…
UW Select Toxin Transfer Due Diligence Form
Complete this form for any transfer of select toxins in any amount to any intra- or extramural entity or individual requires documentation of due diligence. Submit the completed form to uwsa@uw.…
Biosafety SOP template
Use the Biosafety SOP template (Word) to prepare a standard operating procedure (SOP) for procedures involving biohazards.
Select Agent Program
The Federal Select Agent Program regulates all work with select agents and toxins, including possession, use and transfer. Researchers at the UW working with select agents and toxins are required to…
Biological Use Authorization (BUA) Application FAQs
These frequently asked questions (FAQs) are designed to help you complete the BUA application. The below FAQs correspond to the new/renewal BUA application. The FAQs also pertain to the Change to BUA…
Facilities Safety Equipment Checklist Explanations
Below are questions asked during safety equipment inspections and explanations for each question.
Fume Hood Condition Explanations
The following are questions and answers in response to receiving a notice on a fume hood.
Frequently asked questions
Why did I receive a Fume Hood Condition Notice?
During routine testing of your…
Laboratory Survey Checklist Explanations
Below are questions asked during lab safety inspections and explanations for each question.
Please refer to the Laboratory Safety page for more information.
Administrative Plans & Materials…
Empty Chemical Containers
The Empty Chemical Containers Focus Sheet provides guidance to dispose of or reuse chemical containers in accordance with hazardous waste regulations.
Hazardous Material Disposal and Recycling
University personnel have the following options for getting rid of hazardous materials and potentially contaminated supplies and equipment.
Note: Not all options are available for all items.
UPDATE: Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP) Policy Implementation and Reminder
UPDATE: The White House issued an executive order on May 5, 2025, directing federal agencies to end funding for "dangerous gain-of-function research” and develop a new oversight policy within 120…
2025 UW Biosafety Manual and Biological Use Authorization (BUA) Application updates
Biosafety Manual Updates
The 2025 edition of the UW Biosafety Manual is available for download. The updated information covers hazards associated with the use of biohazardous agents and…
Biohazardous Waste Management Plan
The Biohazardous Waste Management Plan describes the requirements for management of biohazardous waste and methods for compliance to regulations governing handling and disposal of biohazardous waste…