Safety and Waste Management for SAM Pathogen Methods

Pathogens in samples taken from areas contaminated as the result of a homeland security event may be more hazardous than naturally occurring pathogens of the same genus and species. The pathogens may have been manufactured, engineered or treated to enhance dispersion or virulence characteristics. Laboratories should carefully consider implementing additional safety measures before agreeing to accept these samples.

In addition, many of the pathogen methods listed in Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) contain specific requirements, guidelines or information regarding safety precautions that should be followed when handling or processing environmental samples and reagents. BSL-2 is suitable for work involving agents that pose moderate hazards to personnel and the environment. BSL-3 is applicable when performing manipulations of indigenous or exotic agents that can cause serious or potentially lethal disease and also have the potential for aerosol transmission. Some pathogens that are normally handled at BSL-2 may require BSL-3 procedures and facilities if large volumes, high concentrations or potential aerosols are expected as a part of the analytical process.

For more information on BSL practices and procedures, the following references should be consulted:

• CDC — Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL), 6th Edition. 2020.
• CDC — Laboratory Security and Emergency Response Guidance for Laboratories Working with Select Agents Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Vol. 51, No. RR-19, 1 -– 6 (PDF) (12 pp, 148 K, About PDF). 2002.
• Select Agent Rules and Regulations found at the National Select Agent Registry.
  • Federal Select Agent Program. 
  • Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. 

The following sources provide information regarding waste management:

• EPA — Hazardous Waste Management (40 CFR parts 260) and EPA Administered Permit Programs (40 CFR part 270). 
• EPA — Laboratory Environmental Sample Disposal Information Document - Companion to Standardized Analytical Methods for Environmental Restoration Following Homeland Security Events (SAM) – Revision 5.0

Other resources that can be consulted for additional information include the following:

• OSHA — Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (29 CFR part 1910.120). 
• OSHA — Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories (29 CFR part 1910.1450). 
• OSHA — Respiratory Protection (29 CFR part 1910.134).
• DOT — Hazardous Materials Shipment and Packaging (49 CFR parts 171-180).