A researcher is doing experiments with potentially pathogenic bacteria. How should she dispose of them once she is finished with the study?
A They should be placed into a biohazard bag to be incinerated.
B They should be washed down the drain.
C They should be placed in the trash.
D They should be placed in the freezer.
A They should be placed into a biohazard bag to be incinerated.
The correct answer is A: They should be placed into a biohazard bag to be incinerated.
When working with potentially pathogenic bacteria, proper disposal is crucial to prevent any potential risks to public health and the environment. Here is an explanation of why option A is the correct choice:
1. Biohazard bag: Potentially pathogenic bacteria should be collected and placed into a biohazard bag. These bags are specially designed to contain and prevent the spread of infectious materials.
2. Incineration: Incineration is the recommended method for disposing of potentially pathogenic bacteria. Incineration involves subjecting the waste to high temperatures, effectively killing any microorganisms and destroying their DNA. This ensures that there is no chance for the bacteria to survive or spread further.
3. Alternative methods:
- Option B: Washing down the drain is generally not recommended because it can contaminate the water supply and potentially cause harm to the environment.
- Option C: Placing potentially pathogenic bacteria in the regular trash can lead to exposure risks for waste management personnel and others who come into contact with the trash.
- Option D: Placing the bacteria in the freezer may temporarily preserve them, but it does not effectively eliminate the risk of contamination and spreading.
It is important for the researcher to follow proper biosafety protocols and consult with their institution's guidelines or regulatory bodies for specific instructions regarding the handling and disposal of potentially pathogenic bacteria.