PCR using a high temperature DNA polymerase

The protocol for this technique can be found here and MSDS for the reagents used can be found here.

Risks

No bacteria are used in this protocol so the biological hazards are minimal.

Heat- While most PCR is now carried out using specialised machines, it is possible to perform PCR by hand using heat blocks and waterbaths. The high temperatures used in this technique are sufficient to burn the skin so care must be taken when using machinery and transferring samples. The use of tongs or heat proof gloves is recommended in this case.

When in doubt refer to the departmental poster on the safety homepage for waste disposal advice.