Condition of wall and floor surfaces in S2 systems

The condition of surfaces (floors, walls, work tables) in genetic engineering facilities is one of the structural requirements for safe work with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In particular, the use of tiles as floor or wall coverings has led to discussions in the past between operators of genetic engineering facilities and the responsible licensing and supervisory authorities. In this context, the amended GenTSV stipulates in Annex 2 (Part A, Level II, Section a, No. 3) that surfaces in the workrooms of a genetic engineering facility (e.g., work surfaces, walls, floors, and furniture surfaces) must be easy to clean and resistant to the substances used, as well as to cleaning agents and disinfectants. The work surfaces, adjacent wall surfaces, the floor, and the wall-floor junction must be liquid-tight. From Level 3 onwards, the ceiling must also be easy to clean.

The ZKBS published a statement on this topic in June 2020. It states that tiling walls in Level 2 and 3 genetic engineering facilities is considered easy to clean, sufficiently disinfectable, and therefore permissible. Care must be taken to ensure that the joints between the wall tiles are liquid-tight. Tiling the floor in Level 2 genetic engineering facilities is equally permissible. However, for rooms with a significantly increased probability of contamination (e.g., rooms where open animal husbandry takes place), a floor with few joints is recommended. In Level 3 genetic engineering facilities, where genetic engineering work with a moderate risk is carried out, accidental spillage of genetically modified organisms cannot generally be ruled out. Furthermore, any extinguishing water that may be generated in the event of a fire must be retained within the facility. Therefore, a floor with few joints is generally recommended for Level 3 genetic engineering facilities.