Need Molecular Bio Lab Practices

[Sandra Poudrier]

I am looking for guidelines as to what are the standard laboratory 
practices when working with molecular biology products.

Areas I am hoping to get information or referenes on:

Microbial Controls:

What level of microbial control is needed?
Can any level of microbial contamination be tolerated?

DNase:

Is DNase the only microbial contaminant to be concerned with when working 
with DNA?
Can any level of DNase activity be tolerated?
Is there a standardized test for detecting DNase?

Water Quality:

What precautions must be taken with the water for making perparations?  
Is sterile filtered D.I. water acceptable or is it necessary to 
autoclave as well?  Is one perferred over the other?
Are chemicals or endotoxins ever a concern?

RNase:

Is there any antigenicity or safety issues when working with lyophilized 
RNase?

Is there any antigenicity or safety issues when working with lyophilized 
RNase?

Regulatory Issues:

Any references as to safety or other regulations applicable to working 
with DNA would be appreciated.

I know there are many questions that cover several subjects, but if you 
have any useful information on any one of them, it would be greatly 
appreciated.  Thanks for your time and expertise.  I am still a student 
and have a lot to learn.  

Sandy