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Biosafety Levels

Biosafety Levels consist of a combination of facility design features, laboratory practices, safety equipment, and procedures that protect against the agents in use. Biosafety levels build upon one another. With increasing risk, additional containment measures and safe working practices are established to escalate researcher and environmental protection from level 1 through 4. Detailed information for each biosafety level can be found in the CDC’s publication Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories.

Biosafety Level 1

Suitable for work involving well-characterized agents not known to consistently cause disease in healthy adults and present minimal potential hazard to laboratory personnel and the environment.

Practices

  • Use mechanical devices for pipetting; never mouth pipette.
  • Minimize splashes and aerosolization
  • Decontaminate lab surfaces with appropriate disinfectant after use.
  • Wash your hands after manipulating microorganisms and before leaving the laboratory.
  • Safe handling of sharps
  • Never eat, drink, chew gum, store food, smoke, handle contact lenses or apply cosmetics in the lab.

Safety Equipment & PPE

  • Special containment devices or equipment are generally not required.
  • Gloves should be worn when working with hazardous materials.
  • Lab coats required when there is a splash hazard.
  • Always use eye protection, such as safety glasses, per UF requirements.

Facilities

  • Labs have doors for access control
  • Labs have sinks for handwashing
  • An eyewash station is readily available in the lab
  • The lab is designed so that is can be easily cleaned (no carpet, all impervious surfaces)
  • Furniture can support anticipated loads and uses
  • Windows that open to the exterior are fitted with screens
  • Illumination is adequate

Biosafety Level 2

Agents associated with human disease and pose moderate hazards to personnel and the environment. All human and non-human primate blood, cells, tissues must be handled at BSL-2 (minimum).

Practices

BSL-1 practices plus:

  • Apply biohazardous signs to all containers or devices used with biohazardous materials
  • Store and transport infectious materials in durable, leak-proof container
  • Take training and demonstrate proficiency in handling materials
  • Participate in medical surveillance when applicable
  • Prohibit animals and plants not associated with the work

Safety Equipment & PPE

  • Lab coats, gloves, and eye protection are required.
  • Use a biosafety cabinet or other containment devices (sealed centrifuge rotors) for aerosol generating procedures.
  • Biosafety cabinets are certified at least annually.
  • Protect vacuum lines connected to aspirators with in-line HEPA filters and liquid disinfectant traps.
  • Access to autoclave

Facilities

BSL-1 facility requirements plus:

  • Restricted access and identifiable by a biohazard sign posted to the lab’s entrance.
  • Doors are self closing and have locks.
  • Inward airflow and no recirculated air

Biosafety Level 3

Work requiring BSL-3 containment is conducted in dedicated UF facilities that are designed for this type of containment. If you would like to more information on how to obtain clearance and access to BSL-3 facilities, please contact the Biosafety Office at bso@ehs.ufl.edu.