Preventing Aerosol Production

Aerosols are liquid and solid particles suspended in the air.  An aerosol with a diameter of 5 microns or less can remain airborne for a long period of time, spread wide distances, and is easily inhaled.  Particles with a diameter larger than 5 microns tend to settle rapidly and can contaminate skin, other surfaces, and ventilation systems.
Over the years, there have been many documented cases of lab personnel acquiring diseases due to their work with infectious agents.  Approximately 80% of these cases are assumed to be primarily related to the creation of aerosols in the lab.  Whenever work with potentially infectious agents is performed, appropriate measures must be taken to protect workers and the environment.  This page (modified from Univ. MN website) describes aerosol producing activities and safe work practices to protect workers from aerosols.

Safe Work Practices to Minimize the Creation of and Exposure to Aerosols:

Laboratory workers should learn and follow (as appropriate) these practices.  Using a combination of the appropriate safety equipment and safe procedures is the primary method to minimize the creation of and exposure to aerosols.