Labs must maintain an up-to-date list of each purchased chemical by using paper log, an excel file, or a chemical tracking software. Update the chemical inventory upon purchase of chemicals and when they are used up or discarded as waste. Be sure to include chemical name and location within the lab.
Similarly, labs must keep an inventory containing information on storage, use, transfer and destruction of biological materials. Appendix H of the MSU Biosafety Manual has an example of a log file outlining information regarding organism’s name, characteristics, and source. MSU Biosafety Manual (PDF) Requirements are more stringent for labs that have USDA/APHIS and/or CDC permits.
An up-to-date, accurate inventory listing all chemicals stored in the lab must be available. Chemical inventories are necessary to ensure employees are aware of the hazards present in their work area, encourage management of purchased reagents and materials and provide helpful information to Emergency Responders during emergencies.
In addition, current inventories may be requested by regulatory agencies.
Material accountability procedures should be established to track the inventory, storage, use, transfer and destruction of dangerous biological materials and assets when no longer needed. The objective is to know what agents exist at a facility, where they are located, and who is responsible for them.