Page 2 of Attachment C 
In order to analyze the current technology for potential occupational 
hazards, NIOSH plans to conduct several walk-through surveys of re- 
combinant DNA processes and associated industries. Identification of 
‘ • 
potential hazards, with recommendations to minimize worker exposure, 
will be derived from the information gained during these surveys. 
This report contains recommendations relevant to operations at 
Genentech, Inc. Recommendations applicable to the entire industry em- 
ploying recombinant DNA technology will be made after NIOSH completes 
a thorough assessment. An assessment of the following areas will be 
made : 
- process operations with attendant potentials for 
worker exposure 
- engineering controls (e.g., physical containment 
design, ventilation, exhaust gas filtration, waste 
product controls, etc.) 
- validation procedures (e.g., of sterilization, phy- 
sical containment, and process termination) 
- work practices 
- emergency and accident procedures 
- medical surveillance 
- environmental monitoring 
- number of exposed workers 
- employee training and education 
This survey of Genentech, Inc. in South San Francisco was conducted 
as one of a series of initial walk-through surveys of firms utilizing 
recombinant DNA techniques in research or production. 
DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPANY 
Genentech started in 1976 as an independently owned research organ- 
ization. Research efforts by Genentech, utilizing recombinant DNA, 
have resulted in somatostatin production (1977), human insulin 
(1978), and human growth hormone (1979). Genentech is now in a tran- 
sitional phase moving from strictly research and development toward 
manufacturing and production. Genetic engineering research and de- 
velopment of production applications is the prime objective of this 
company. Research projects are generated from within the company or- 
ganization or collaborations with other companies for product or 
process development. 
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