Anatomical Specimens

Anyone working with unfixed, human, anatomical specimens is at risk of bloodborne pathogen exposure and must comply with the provisions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.

A University investigator requesting unfixed specimens from the State Anatomy Board must first obtain certification from the University Biosafety Officer that the requirements of the Standard have been met. A suggested format for this request can be found at the link below.

For more information, please contact the Biosafety Officer, Matthew Fischer, PhD, RBP, CBSP (410-706-7845) or the Director, Anatomical Services Division, State Anatomy Board, Juan Ortega  (410-706-3520).

 

For example letters that can be copied and pasted, please click the expandable headers below.

Note that these letters are not official unless sent to and signed by the appropriate authority.

Draft Letter to Biosafety Officer ▾

Date

Matthew Fischer, PhD, RBP, CBSP
Biosafety Officer, Environmental Health and Safety


Dear Dr. Fischer,

I am requesting unfixed human anatomical specimens from the State Anatomy Board. These specimens will be packaged, transported, and handled in accordance with the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29CFR1910.1030), and the University of Maryland Policy Concerning Prevention and Management of Student and Employee Infection with Bloodborne Pathogens. All University employees and students who will handle these specimens will do so under the University of Maryland Baltimore Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan, have had the required annual training, have either been vaccinated or formally declined vaccination for hepatitis B, and will follow the practice of universal precautions. I have filled out and submitted a UM research registration form to the .

Sincerely,

<signature block>

Draft Letter to Director, Anatomical Services Division, State Anatomy Board ▾

Date

Juan Ortega
Director, Anatomical Services Division
State Anatomy Board

Dear Mr. Ortega:

I have verified that the personnel and facility identified above are in compliance with the OSHA and University of Maryland Baltimore policy regarding bloodborne pathogens.

Sincerely,

Matthew Fischer, PhD, RBP, CBSP
EHS, Biosafety Officer
University of Maryland Baltimore

 

If you and your staff are not covered by an existing control plan, such as UMB's Bloodborne Pathogen Control Plan, please contact Matthew Fischer for assistance. Be aware that it may take some time and effort to get one written and implemented.