PC1 and PC2 Certification

During 2008, MMI optical microscopy labs were relocated from the basement in building 17 to the newly refurbished laboratories in Strip 1 as part of a general development of ARMI / SOBS and the STRIP.   Phase two of MMI’s development was to provide PC1 and PC2 certified microscope labs under the OGTR guidelines to further research and microscopy at Monash.

MMI is pleased to announce PC1 and PC2 certification of our optical microscopy facility in Strip 1 commenced on 3 November 2008.   The floor plan below details the two certified areas in yellow (PC1) and orange (PC2).  It is now a requirement that ALL users and visitors adhere to PC1, PC2 and transportation regulation as outlined by OGTR.    Below is a more general outline of the guidelines:

• Must have completed biosafety training
• No food or drink in the labs or main corridor between labs.
• Lab coats must be worn at all times when conducting experimental work.  MMI provides long sleeve lab gowns for PC2 areas and short sleave for PC1 areas.  These must not be worn outside the specified certified areas.
• Disposable gloves must be worn when handling biohazard products.
• Remove gloves and dispose of into the biohazard bins provided prior to and wash hands before answering phones and opening doors. 
• Safety glasses should be worn whilst conducting procedures where there is a risk such as splashing or spraying liquids.
• Wear suitable fully enclosed footwear. Open-toed shoes are not permitted as they do not provide sufficient protection.
• Long hair must be tied back.
• Always wash your hands before leaving the laboratory area.
• Only operate equipment for which you are trained for.
• Only authorized personnel may enter a room unsupervised.
• If in doubt, always seek help!

These general guidelines must be followed but should not replace those outlined by OGTR.  Further detail regarding these guidelines can be found at: http://www.ogtr.gov.au/internet/ogtr/publishing.nsf/Content/guidelines-1

As access to MMI’s optical facility is by proximity swipe card, users are now required to carry their staff/student ID card at all times as access without correct ID may be refused.  MMI can provide lanyards and card holders upon request – please contact Anna.Jenkins@monash.edu or 9902 0877.

MMI Advanced Optical Facility floor plan of PC1 and PC2 certified laboratories