1. When using an open-fronted fume hood or biological safety cabinet, protective clothing, including gloves and a disposable long-sleeved body covering (gown, laboratory coat, smock, coverall, or similar garment) should be worn so that hands and arms are completely covered.

2. Eye protection should be worn if an open-fronted containment system is used.

3. Other protective equipment may be required, depending on the characteristics of the toxin and the containment system. For example, use additional respiratory protection if aerosols may be generated and it is not possible to use containment equipment or other engineering controls.

4. When handling dry forms of toxins that are electrostatic:

a. Do not wear gloves (such as latex) that help to generate static electricity

b. Use glove bag within a hood or biological safety cabinet, a glove box, or a class III biological safety cabinet.

5. When handling toxins that are percutaneous hazards (irritants, necrotic to tissue, or extremely toxic from dermal exposure), select gloves that are known to be impervious to the toxin.

6. Consider both toxin and diluent when selecting gloves and other protective clothing.

7. If infectious agents and toxins are used together in an experimental system, consider both when selecting protective clothing and equipment.

Laboratory Facilities

Laboratory facility recommendations listed under BSL 2 and BSL 3 and OSHA standards should be reviewed and incorporated as appropriate into protocols for work with toxins.

1. Vacuum lines. When vacuum lines are used with systems containing toxins, they should be protected with a HEPA filter to prevent entry of toxins into the lines. Sink drains should be similarly protected when water aspirators are used.