Restrictions for Minors Working in UF Laboratories and Selected Animal Facilities

William S. Properzio, PhD, Director

New criteria have been introduced establishing restrictions for minors in research laboratories or animal facility. Individuals less than 18 years of age that are not registered UF students will be restricted from certain activities and facilities. Restricted areas include any laboratory or facility designated as BSL-3, ABSL-3 or higher for recombinant or infectious organisms, laboratory where select agents or explosives are used or stored. Restrictions apply to any Animal Care Services (ACS) housing or procedure area/lab/facility. Other restrictioned activities include work with radioactive materials or radiation (X-rays) and acute toxins.

A review/approval procedure to allow minors to work on research projects under the guidance of UF faculty or staff has been established. The individual and advisor must submit a proposal that will outline the proposed project and procedure to be met in the conduct of the research or study. The proposal will be reviewed by the UF Biosafety Committee and approved if appropriate by Environmental Health and Safety.

The policy and procedures for requesting approval can be found at:
http://www.ehs.ufl.edu/Bio/minors.htm