Biological safety levels protect laboratory workers against various agents including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and more based on risk level. Adhering to precautions and practices outlined in each biological safety level (BSL) is critical to ensure a safe workplace, though there are lesser-known “hidden levels”.
The BSL1 through BSL4 classifications cover a wide range of biological agents, safe work practices, specialized safety equipment, and facility design. Some biological agents, however, do not fit perfectly into a specific BSL and require some modifications of BSL2 and BSL3 to create BSL2+ and BSL3+.
Biosafety programs should account for agents, processes, and enhanced practices to protect staff, the public, and the environment. Labs can strengthen biosecurity starting with a biological risk assessment and an exposure control plan (ECP). Using proper personal protective equipment (PPE)—and donning it correctly—working in well-designed facilities, following good laboratory techniques and practices, and fostering a commitment to safety in the lab also enhance biosecurity.
Download the full resource guide to learn:
- Key information and distinguishing factors for each BSL classification, including modified BSL2+ and BSL3+ levels
- Strategies for designing safe and healthy lab spaces that minimize biological hazards
- Best practices for biosafety enhancement backed by standards organizations like Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- How to create an effective ECP that includes risk assessment, standard operating procedures, training, exposure incident response, and record keeping
- How to prepare for a health and safety audit