Biological Safety

Bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms have the potential to cause illness in a number of exposure situations if the proper precautions and procedures are not in place. At Princeton University there is potential for exposure in laboratories using biological agents for research and in animal care facilities where research animals are handled.

If foods are mishandled in storage, preparation, or serving, biological (as well as chemical and physical) hazards can affect the food and cause illness or injury.

To prevent such biological exposure, EHS provides training, consultation, audits and resources to address biological safety and food protection:

• EHS works closely with those science and engineering departments working with biological materials and research animals and participates in the work of the two faculty committees having oversight, the Biosafety Committee (IBC) and the Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).
• EHS also works closely with Dining Services, Restaurant Associates, and others involved with food service on campus to ensure food protection measures are in place.

If you have any questions related to biosafety that are not addressed in the Biological Safety page, please contact the Environmental Health and Biosafety Officer for further information.