Required Training for the use of Biological Agents

Princeton University is committed to ensuring that all personnel engaged in research activities involving biological hazards receive appropriate education and training to have the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure the safety of all personnel and the environment.

Princeton University’s IBC has determined the minimum requirements that must be completed before work with biological agents can begin. Specifically, all personnel who work directly with biological/infectious agents, biological toxins or conduct experiments with recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules (r/s NA):

1. Must be entered into EHS’ Safety Health Inspection and Equipment Logistics Database (SHIELD), with proper job activities assigned and updated on a regular basis;
2. Must be listed on the IBC approved protocol(s); and
3. Must complete all of the following training*:
   1. Laboratory Safety Training
   2. Introduction to Biosafety
   3. Bloodborne Pathogens for Researchers (when handling human blood and body fluids that have the potential for exposure to bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV)

The IBC will not grant approval for a new or amended IBC registration or for addition of personnel until all of these requirements have been met.

More information about these and other training courses are available at the Environmental Health and Safety Training website.

*To enroll in a class, go to the Employee Learning Center, click on Training by Department>Environmental Health and Safety>Biological Safety or Bloodborne Pathogens for Researchers. Select and enroll in a scheduled session.

Please contact RIA’s IBC Office for assistance.