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Recommended Work Practices: Flow Cytometers

Cells should be sorted under the same containment conditions (e.g., BSL-2 for human cells) in which they are handled for other manipulations. When sorting potentially infectious unfixed cells, it is important to keep in mind that potentially infectious aerosols are generated. When the cell sorter fails to operate properly (e.g., a clogged sort nozzle) there can be an increased production of aerosols. High speed sorters also produce an increased amount of aerosols. Because of this risk it is recommended that the aerosol containment of the cell be verified. The following precautions should also be taken:

• Universal precautions should be followed (see the MSU Exposure Control Plan for details);
• Appropriate PPE should be worn (i.e., lab coat, gloves, N-95 respirator, splash goggles, face shield if desired);
• If possible, the cell sorter should be located in a separate room;
• The sorter should be operated according to the manufacturer's recommendations; and
• Decontaminate the sorter after each run using an appropriate disinfectant. The disinfectant should be run through the machine for at least 10 minutes.

Additional biosafety features can be installed to the sorter as appropriate.

Recommended Work Practices: Pipettes and Pipetting Aids

Biosafety Manual Table of Contents