Laboratory operations/safety (B. Lynn, S. Mohan, R. Ferland, I. Meng, R. Souza)
The following recommendations are made for safe laboratory operations in the current COVID-19 environment.
- Any work that can be done off-site should continue to be done off-site.
- Individuals should be cross-trained on multiple overlapping techniques that are essential for safe lab operations, so that multiple people can cover for individuals who may have to be absent for extended periods of time.
- Universal signage should be created for the laboratory space that specifies the required protocols that need to be followed (e.g., reminders for individuals to wear face masks and wipe down the lab (keyboards, doorknobs, freezer doors, sink handles) before leaving).
- Work shift should be staggered to decrease number of people in any individual lab at a given time (this could include two shifts within a 6:00AM-9:00PM workday).
- The use of an online (Google) calendar should be to schedule times when individuals will be in specific labs/buildings, including names and contact information.
- Proper PPE (face masks) should be worn in the lab whenever the occupancy exceeds one person.
- Physical distancing needs to be maintained whenever possible (wearing a face mask is not a substitute for physical distancing). This will require limits on the overall occupancy for each lab (e.g., 1 person for every 200 sq ft of lab space). In addition, training of individuals that requires working in close proximately is not recommended to begin during the first phase of re-opening, and when started may necessitate additional PPE requirements.
- Physical distancing should be practiced and face masks worn in desk space/shared office areas designated for laboratory staff.
- Laboratories should be disinfected (70% ethanol) before each person leaves (including lab benches, keyboards, doorknobs, freezer doors, sink handles). Additional cleanings of shared equipment (prior to and after use) should be conducted.
- Housekeeping: trash receptacles should be placed outside the door to the lab. Notes should be left for housekeeping staff on the doors when additional supplies are needed (paper towels, soap).
- Mailroom deliveries: As laboratory work ramps up, there will be an increase in mailroom deliveries. Maybe there is a common area in each building where packages could be delivered each day?
- Individual emergency research continuity plans should be revisited, updated based on the following recommendations, and reviewed by all laboratory personnel.
- Updated contact information for laboratory personnel should be posted in the labs.