The University Biosafety Committee (BSC) reviews all requests to conduct research involving recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid (RSNA) molecules and potentially biologically hazardous materials.
It is the instructor, staff manager or investigator's responsibility to provide complete information about teaching and research procedures involving RSNA and biologically hazardous materials by completing the SFSU Biohazard Use Authorization (BUA) application.
Submit completed BUA applications to the Biological Safety Programs Coordinator or EH&S office for BSC review.
BUA Process
Description of BUA Process Guide
A completed BUA application includes the following elements:
- Main BUA application form
- BUA Attachment 1 – Biomaterial Risk Group Details
- BUA Attachment 2 – Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (RSNA Details)
- BUA Attachment 3 – Standard/Safe Operating Procedures for Hazardous Tasks (template included)
BUAs must be renewed annually but they can be amended anytime in DocuSign.
Annual BUA Review
To ensure approved projects are still ongoing and that the biological materials listed on the BUA are still accurate, BUAs must be re-approved annually. The BUA Holder must fill out a simple form requesting renewal that is reviewed and approved through DocuSign.
Amending a BUA
To amend a BUA, the BUA Holder must fill out the same form describing what has changed. The Biosafety Committee will evaluate the request and decide if this is a minor change and approve it or if it is a major change that requires a new BUA application. Approvals will be processed using DocuSign.
More Biosafety Information
