Safety and Health Week 2026 - Spotlight: Biosafety on Campus
As part of Safety and Health Week, we鈥檙e highlighting biosafety and the important role it plays in protecting our campus community, the environment, and the integrity of our research and teaching activities.
Biosafety applies to anyone working with biological materials鈥攊ncluding microorganisms, cell cultures, human or animal blood and bodily fluids, tissues, specimens, or live animals鈥攁nd also extends to shared responsibilities such as proper waste disposal, training, emergency preparedness, and safe work practices.
Why Biosafety Matters
Strong biosafety practices help to
- Protect the health and safety of students, staff, and faculty
- Prevent accidental exposure or release of biological materials
- Ensure compliance with institutional, provincial, and federal requirements
- Support a culture of safety, accountability, and shared responsibility
Key Biosafety Reminders
Training: Anyone working with biological materials must complete required biosafety training before beginning work.
Containment: Use appropriate containment practices (e.g., biosafety cabinets, PPE, and secondary containment).
Housekeeping: Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of food and personal items.
Waste Management: Dispose of biological and sharps waste in designated, labeled containers.
Incident Reporting: Spills, exposures, and near-misses should be reported promptly鈥攅arly reporting helps prevent future incidents!
Support
If you have questions about biosafety requirements, training, inspections, or are unsure whether your activities fall under biosafety oversight, please reach out鈥攚e鈥檙e here to help. 馃摟 biosafety@upei.ca.
Other training courses that may be required for biosafety include respirator training and fit testing, first aid training, and training in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods. These courses are arranged through the HSE Department. 馃摟 hse@upei.ca.
Join virtual activities to celebrate Safety and Health Week.
Beginning May 5, enter a safety tip for your work area for a chance to win! Email HSE@upei.ca with subject line: SAFETY TIP, and include your name, department, type of work area (lab, office, etc.), and your safety tip! Safety tips will be accepted and entered into the draw until May 15, 2026.
