IBC Meeting Minutes February 19, 2026

Overview

Reviewed 1 application with discussion of strain listings and BSL classifications.
Updated renewals process — moved to a Google form and working toward an electronic system
Acknowledged a new ATCC cell line.
Introduced instructional lab safety changes per ASM guidance: no open flames in biosafety cabinets; updated Chemical Hygiene Plan.
Set a quarterly meeting cadence for May, August, November 2026 (tentatively the week of May 11 for the first meeting).

Tentatively the week of May 11, 2026

Reviewed one application; agenda provided in chat.
Strains listed on page five were approved at BSL1
T7 identified as an expression element and accepted.
Concern noted that some organisms (e.g., streptococcus) appeared to require BSL-2 rather than BSL-1; the committee requested clarification.
Bleach recommended over ethanol for decontamination due to lower cost for larger volumes; motion to approve with amendment to switch to bleach was passed.

Google form created for annual renewals to reduce administrative burden.
Renewal records are stored in the IBC safety folder for shared access and annual tracking.
Most renewals report personnel-only modifications; exception: Uli Bierbach added a new cell line.
New cell line was acquired from ATCC (via John Lukesh); cell line requires acknowledgement on record.

American Society for Microbiology recommends enhanced precautions for teaching labs; changes are in progress.
Changes were applied at the main campus; downtown practices will be assessed.
Unknown environmental samples (e.g., water, soil) are treated as BSL-2; personal items are prohibited and writing utensils must remain in the microbiology lab.
Open flames are prohibited in biosafety cabinets because flames disrupt airflow; OSHA fact sheet is referenced.
Chemical Hygiene Plan now requires electric incinerators or disposable loops for plating in biosafety cabinets; alcohol burners were added as alternatives to Bunsen burners; two staff currently using open flame will be notified.
Quarterly meeting scheduling
Quarterly cadence is proposed with meetings in May 2026, August 2026, and November 2026.
May meeting is targeted for the week of May 11, 2026 to avoid finals and commencement.
August meeting is expected in late August before classes begin.
Meeting dates will be scheduled and sent; attendees were asked to confirm calendars are up to date.