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Ethidium Bromide

Intent

Provide safe handling procedures for Ethidium Bromide

Potential Hazards( Please consult your MSDS)

MSDS Databases

Handling Procedures

  1. Consult the Material Safety Data Sheet on ethidium bromide before using the chemical.
  2. Wear personal protective equipment when handling ethidium bromide.
    • lab coat
    • nitrile gloves
    • closed toe shoes
    • Splash Goggles
    • Eye Wash/Deluge Shower
  3. Leave personal protective equipment in laboratory
  4. Work with Ethidium Bromide in a designated area
  5. Equipment used with Ethidium Bromide should be designated as such and not used for other work unless decontaminated.
  6. A UW light may be used to detect the presents of Ethidium Bromide, remember to use appropriate protective equipment when using UV lights.

Waste Disposal

  1. Gels and solid waste are to be placed in containers available from the Environmental Safety Facility
  2. Buffers are to be separated from the gels and placed in containers available from the Environmental Safety Facility.
  3. Ensure containers are labeled with a chemical waste sticker.
  4. Do not fill containers to more than 80% of capacity.
  5. Bring to Environmental Safety Facility on a regular basis

Equipment Decontamination

  1. Equipment on counter tops can be decontaminated by soaking for a minimum of 2 hours in a solution of one part household bleach to one part soapy water.
  2. Rinse with large amounts of water.
  3. This procedure is only usefully on dilute solutions.