Biosafety and Biosecurity

Laboratories are designed based on the containment needs of the work being performed from basic, Biosafety Level 1, to maximum containment, Biosafety Level 4.  Biosafety level designations are based on a composite of the design features, construction, containment facilities, equipment, practices and operational procedures required for working with agents from four corresponding risk groups (1 – 4).  Note: the risk group of an agent relates to but does not equate to the biosafety level of laboratories designed to work with an agent.  The assignment of an agent to a biosafety level requires a risk assessment.  This assessment takes into account the risk group of the agent and other factors, e.g. pathogenicity of the organism, route of exposure, host range of the organism, availability of disease prevention and treatment, etc.

According to the CDC and NIH, BSL2 laboratories must have signs posted on their access doors. Those signs  must contain:  the name of the infectious agent(s) or potential biohazard (human derived materials), special requirements for entering the area and the name, telephone number of the principal investigator and other responsible person.

GMT – Good microbiological technique,  BSC – Biological Safety Cabinet

“Biosecurity” refers to institutional and personal security measures designed to prevent the loss, theft, misuse, diversion or intentional release of pathogens or toxins.  Laboratory biosecurity involves a program of accountability for pathogens and toxins.  Effective biosafety practices are the very foundation of laboratory biosecurity practices.  Principal Investigators are responsible for inventories of the agents in their laboratories and to ensure the suitability of personnel who may have access to agents.