Research involving the use of human-derived substances (e.g., blood or blood components, tissues, cells, secretions) is subject to the OSHA “Bloodborne Pathogens” (BBP) Standard. It is impossible to test human materials, including established cell lines, for all bloodborne pathogens. Therefore, human-derived materials (including established cell lines) are classified as BSL-2 and require IBC review.
BSL-2 is appropriate when work is done with any human-derived blood, body fluids, tissues, or primary human cell lines where the presence of an infectious agent may be unknown. See CDC, Section III- Principles of Biosafety.
Laboratory personnel working with human-derived materials should refer to the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard for specific required precautions.
In general, this means:
- Universal precautions shall be observed to prevent contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials. When differentiation between body fluid types is difficult or impossible, all body fluids shall be considered potentially infectious materials. 1910.1030(d)(1).
- Eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics or lip balm, and handling contact lenses are prohibited in work areas where there is a reasonable likelihood of occupational exposure. 1910.1030(d)(2)(ix).
- Food and drink shall not be kept in refrigerators, freezers, shelves, cabinets or on countertops or benchtops where blood or other potentially infectious materials are present. 1910.1030(d)(2)(x).
- Handwashing facilities must be readily accessible. 1910.1030(d)(2)(iii).
- Contaminated needles and other contaminated sharps shall not be bent, recapped, or removed. 1910.1030(d)(2)(vii).