Before choosing a disinfectant, companies should consider the work being performed in the facility, the effectiveness of the disinfectant, how it will be applied, how it might impact the air handling system, and what contamination, if any, it might create in the room. Companies may end up using multiple disinfectants, rotating them and treating them more often for the greatest effectiveness. In most BL3 or BL4 biosafety facilities, paraformaldehyde is used to decontaminate a lab or a room. While it is strong enough to kill highly infectious and potentially toxic organisms economically, it is also more dangerous to personnel than other disinfectants. Air handling systems must be designed to contain the formaldehyde per federal regulations, and personnel must wear protective clothing when using it. Other disinfectants are chlorinated or chlorine derivatives, which also pose high risks to humans. And instead of killing an agent, they may help create a more complex or potent material than the one they were meant to kill. Vaporized hydrogen peroxide is an option that can be effective in small, confined spaces. Peroxide is attractive because it is relatively benign, but it may not be as effective for the more serious agents. Another decontamination consideration is autoclaving requirements for solid or infectious materials.

A liquid or gas added to a mixture to promote dispersion or to maintain dispersed particles in suspension. A dispersant or plasticizer is a liquid or gas added to a mixture to promote dispersion or to maintain dispersed particles in suspension. Also, a dispersant is a compound consisting of a surfactant and a solvent, sprayed to dissipate oil slicks. Dispersants are continuously sought which have higher fluidity under adverse storage conditions because of their ease of handling. Furthermore, dispersants are also sought which are capable of dispersing higher amounts of particulate solids such as pigments in an organic liquid medium and which result in paints and inks which exhibit superior properties such as improved gloss

Containers must: be appropriate for the contents, not leak, be properly labeled & maintain their integrity if chemical or thermal treatment is used. Containers of biohazardous material should be kept closed, Metal Sharps -- Use a rigid, puncture-resistant container (heavy-walled plastic is recommended) suitable for encapsulation & disposal. Container and encapsulated contents must withstand an applied pressure of 40 psi without rupture. Pasteur Pipets & Broken Glassware - Use a rigid, puncture-resistant container (plastic, heavy card board or metal) that can be sealed. Solid Biohazardous Waste -- Use heavy-duty plastic Biohazard Bags (autoclave bags) or containers for solid biohazardous waste. Non-Hazardous Solid Biological Waste - Use heavy-duty plastic bags or other appropriate containers without a Biohazard Symbol. Red or orange biohazard bags or containers should not be used for non-hazardousmaterial. Liquids - Use leak-proof containers that are able to withstand thermal or chemical treatment. Biological waste may be held temporarily under refrigeration, prior to disposal, in a safe manner that does not create aesthetic (visual or odor) problems. Biohazardous waste should be treated and disposed of promptly & not allowed to accumulate. Containers holding biohazardous material must be clearly labeled, including the Biohazard Symbol. Temporary holding areas for biohazardous waste must be clean and orderly with no access to unauthorized persons (warning signs should be posted).