Biological Toxins

The University of Florida Environmental Health & Safety Department states, "Biological toxins are toxic substances produced by microorganisms, animals, and plants that have the capability of causing harmful effects when inhaled, ingested, injected or absorbed.  The health effects of exposure can vary greatly depending on the toxin, the amount, and the route of exposure, ranging from minor (skin or eye irritation, headache, nausea) to severe (respiratory distress, muscle weakness, seizures, death).”

Being aware of the handling, use, and transfer of biological toxins are important in order to protect the surrounding environment and community.  University of Florida discusses that, “Some biological toxins are classified by the Federal Government as Select Agents due to their potential to pose a severe threat to public health and safety.  Possession, use and transfer of these toxins is highly regulated and all select agent toxins must be registered with the Biosafety Office. Although they must still be registered by the Biosafety Office, in small quantities these select agent toxins are exempt from select agent regulations, provided the amount under control of a principal investigator, treating physician or veterinarian does not exceed, at any time or in any form. Several biological toxins are restricted for export by the U.S. Department of Commerce and require an export license prior to any shipment out of the U.S.  The list of toxins subject to export controls may be found on the Bioagent Export Control List.  All export-controlled toxins must be registered even if the LD50 of the toxin is > 100 µg/kg body weight.”

At Ohio University, the use of biological toxins is used in the laboratory setting. It is important for the departments who work with these substances are taking precaution in protecting the environment with proper sterilization and disposal as well as providing personal protective equipment for anyone who comes in contact with the substances.

The University of Tennessee states in their Biological Toxins Guidance that because they can be extremely hazardous, even in minute quantities, biological toxins require strict safeguards against their inhalation, absorption through skin or mucous membranes (typically due to a splash), ingestion, or percutaneous injury. A chemical hygiene plan and MSDS specific for the toxin must be on hand in the laboratory for inspection.

Key points of the guidelines are:

Written safety protocols to cover the use of the specific toxin(s) in use;

Security measures in place to protect against unauthorized access to toxin(s);

Inventory control system in place; all entries in a hardbound book, in ink;

Written plan for toxin-related emergencies (spill, exposure, ) posted; and

BSL-2 or BSL-3 containment and practices in.

The Medical University of South Carolina states in their risk management policy requirements that must be implemented for all biological toxins used. This states that: 

At a minimum, biosafety level 2 containment and safety practices should be followed.

When working with toxins, a sign stating “Toxin in Use” should be posted at the lab entrance to provide hazard communication.

Precautions should be followed to contain spills and prevent aerosols or needle sticks.

Proper decontamination of waste

Toxins must be inactivated before disposal (refer to the MSDS)

The following is a template safety protocol for work involving biological toxins.

Having a detailed plan of action to reduce the risk of harmful effects from biological toxins is key.