Cold Room Utilization Guidelines

Introduction

Research cold rooms are essential components of scientific laboratories and research facilities, providing controlled environments necessary for storing temperature-sensitive materials, samples, and reagents. These cold rooms maintain precise temperature and humidity levels, ensuring the integrity and stability of valuable research assets. However, to uphold their functionality and reliability, regular upkeep, maintenance, and storage guidelines must be followed.

Cold Room Storage Guidelines

Maintain inventory of all items stored in the cold room. Each laboratory using a shared cold room is responsible for labelling all items with the PIs name. Organize items systematically and according to any relevant categorization to facilitate easy retrieval.
Adhere to laboratory safety protocols when handling items in the cold room. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as lab coats, gloves, and googles to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.
Items should be stored in/on non-porous materials and shelves (i.e. stainless steel shelving, plastic or glass containers, etc.).
Do not store cardboard or any paper products in cold rooms, unless stored within a sealed plastic container.
Do not store items on the floor
All waste must be disposed of outside the cold room in the appropriate waste stream. No satellite accumulation areas, waste containers or waste should be stored in the cold room.
In the event of a spill promptly clean up all spilled materials. In addition to cleaning up any spills it is important to regularly clean all cold room surfaces to prevent clutter.
To prevent condensation, close cold room doors and assure the door stays firmly shut using the engineering controls that are in place (i.e. interior/exterior latches, etc.)
Do not store food or beverage in cold room.
If you observe any water leak or any other mechanical issue, please report to BU Campus Planning and Operation (CPO).
- CRC Campus: 617-353-2105
- MED Campus: 617-358-4144