Questions: Data Table 3: Safety Scenarios Scenario You must prepare your work surface for working with cultures. You spill a liquid culture on the floor. You must dispose of a culture. You are pregnant and/or suffer from a aromised immune

To address the scenarios presented in the data table, here are the appropriate responses for each situation:

1. You must prepare your work surface for working with cultures.

   • Response: Disinfect the work surface thoroughly using an appropriate disinfectant (e.g., 70% ethanol or a bleach solution). Ensure that all materials and equipment needed for the work are sterilized and organized to minimize contamination risks.

2. You spill a liquid culture on the floor.

   • Response: Immediately cover the spill with paper towels or absorbent material to contain it. Then, apply a disinfectant (such as a bleach solution) to the spill area and let it sit for the recommended contact time. Clean up the absorbent material and dispose of it in a biohazard waste container. Finally, disinfect the area again to ensure thorough decontamination.

3. You must dispose of a culture.

   • Response: Autoclave the culture to sterilize it before disposal. If an autoclave is not available, use a chemical disinfectant to treat the culture. Once sterilized or disinfected, place the culture in a biohazard waste container for proper disposal according to your institution's guidelines.

By following these responses, you can ensure a safe and sterile working environment when handling cultures.