Wayne State University Office of Environmental Health and Safety
Biological and Chemical Decontamination of Laboratory Equipment
Biological Contaminated Equipment
Equipment (including centrifuges, incubators, refrigerators and freezers) that has been contaminated with blood or body fluids that may contain infectious agents must be decontaminated prior to removal from the lab. The best agent for decontamination is a fresh solution of 1:10 or 1:20 household bleach and water. Be careful, however, when using this type of disinfectant because it may damage some equipment surfaces. Contact time to disinfect is normally 15-20 minutes. Gloves should be worn when disinfecting contaminated equipment. Other disinfectants that can be used are: phenolics and quaternary ammonias. Avoid using alcohol (ethanol, methanol, isopropanol) as they evaporate too quickly and will not decontaminate surfaces effectively. Perform a final surface rinse with water, or soapy water, to remove bleach residue. Avoid using bleach on any stainless steel or rubber surfaces. If there is any doubt how to decontaminate your equipment, contact the manufacturer or OEHS. Complete and place “Laboratory Equipment Decontamination Form” on equipment to verify it’s been cleaned.
Chemical Contaminated Equipment
Lab equipment (including refrigerators, freezers and centrifuges) that contained hazardous chemicals must have their contents removed and decontaminated prior to transport. This includes removing any internal compressed gas cylinders. Chemical decontamination of lines and hoses should follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent damage to delicate components. For example, fluid must be drained prior to moving the equipment and lines flushed with water or equipment buffer solution. Any chemical reservoir must be drained to prevent spillage. Any surface contamination must be cleaned up. Clean-up can be done with a damp rag with mild soapy water. Complete and place “Laboratory Equipment Decontamination Form” on equipment to verify it’s been cleaned.
Contact OEH&S at 577-1200 if you have questions regarding specific equipment disposal requirements, or if any components of the equipment contain regulated or hazardous materials (e.g., liquid mercury or oil).
Biological Safety Cabinets
Biological safety cabinets must be decontaminated by OEHS prior to removing from a lab. The decontaminations process (using formaldehyde gas and a neutralizer) takes 4 to 6 hours to complete and needs to be scheduled at least 1 week prior to the move. Exceptions to this will only be allowed if you consult with OEHS. Contact OEHS if you have any questions. OEHS will complete and place a “Laboratory Equipment Decontamination Form” on equipment to verify it’s been cleaned.
Gas Cylinders
Gas cylinders should be returned to the supplier. For single use cylinders (calibration gas or lecture bottles), contact OEHS for disposal.