Two new federal policies impacting research with synthetic nucleic acids and biological agents and toxins expected in May 2025
In May 2025, two new federal policy frameworks impacting research are scheduled to be implemented. More information will be provided prior to implementation. We understand that these new…
Biotoxin Safety
Learn how to work safely with biotoxins and if the biotoxin you use is subject to additional regulatory oversight.
Autoclave Safety
Learn how to safely operate an autoclave and treat biohazardous waste for disposal according to applicable regulations.
Updated ABSL-1 waste disposal procedures
Processes for treatment and disposal of animal biosafety level 1 (ABSL-1) animal carcasses have been updated with input from the UW Infectious Waste Committee and the UW Institutional Biosafety…
New spend category and purchasing requirements for research with synthetic nucleic acids and synthesis equipment
A new spend category has been created for the purchase of synthetic nucleic acids and synthesis equipment to help ensure compliance with the Framework for Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening. This…
Revised NIH Guidelines address research involving gene drive modified organisms
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published revisions to the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines). The published changes…
Approval required for use of recombinant or synthetic DNA or RNA in animals
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) reminds researchers that all research with biohazardous agents at the University of Washington requires review and approval by the Institutional…
Updated Bloodborne Pathogens Training Course
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) launched the revamped course Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) for Researchers Online! The updated version offers enhanced language, visuals, and…
Updated Biological Use Authorization (BUA) applications now available for biological research approval
The EH&S Biological Use Authorization (BUA) application has undergone major revisions with the goal to clarify and improve the questions necessary for the biosafety risk assessment for…
BUA Change Application
This application is for changes to existing research projects that involve biohazards and therefore require Biological Use Authorization (BUA) from the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC). …
October is Biosafety Month: Schedule a spa day for your lab
October is National Biosafety Month, a time to strengthen and reevaluate biosafety practices in the lab.Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) encourages you to set aside some time for…
Fire Extinguishers & Cabinets Design Guide
Construction and facilities project managers download the Fire Extinguishers and Cabinets Design Guide.
Visit the Facilities Projects Support page for more information…
Fire Extinguishers and Cabinets Design Specifications Template
Construction and facilities project managers download the Fire Extinguishers and Cabinets Design Specifications Template.Visit the Facilities Projects Support page for more…
Laboratory Fume Hood Design Specifications Template
UW Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) pre-approves fume hoods for use in University facilities. Use the Laboratory Fume Hood Design Specifications Template (Word) for all…