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From: Rob Toreki <info**At_Symbol_Here**ILPI.COM>
Subject: [DCHAS-L] College lab class ends with 32 people on antibiotics for deadly germ exposure
Date: Jul 28, 2026 23:18 UTC
Reply-To: ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**PRINCETON.EDU>
In-Reply-To:
"Although no person was exposed to N. meningitidis in this event, persons for whom potential exposure was considered did experience unnecessary interventions, including invasive procedures and antibiotic PEP. After-action review underscored the importance of laboratory and stockroom safety procedures, including inventory controls, to ensure that cultures and stocks are accurately labeled and appropriately stored. These measures could help prevent cross-contamination or misuse of stocks and support appropriate occupational health measures. This event prompted an overhaul of stockroom documentation, supervision, and training protocols, as well as a careful inventory of existing stocks, with recommendations to separate stocks used for research from those used in a classroom. Instructional laboratories and stockrooms should establish clear guidelines outlining appropriate inventory controls and documentation, the use of safety equipment, and required training in the safe handling of microorganisms to prevent exposure."
