Going germ-free

Worker cleanliness critical at Western Canadian Microbiome Centre

Going germ-free
Sterile scrubs, Crocs shoes, paper coveralls, a face mask, hair net and gloves are all part of the daily uniform at Calgary's Western Canadian Microbiome Centre. Casa nayafana/Shutterstock

CALGARY — Workers at a new laboratory at the University of Calgary may have a tough time going for coffee or a bathroom break.

That’s because anyone entering the facility — part of the Western Canadian Microbiome Centre — must be thoroughly cleansed of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microscopic critters, according to Reuters.

The day begins with a thorough shower as workers enter the underground, windowless space. They then change into sterile scrubs, Crocs shoes, paper coveralls, a face mask, hair net and gloves.

And if they leave the lab for a break, they must repeat the process to get back in.

Planning is key, said Kathy McCoy, the centre’s scientific director: “Be prepared. Realize that if you are going to drink three litres of water in the morning, you might have to go out and shower to get back in.”

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