Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2)

BSL-2 is designed for work with agents that pose moderate hazards to personnel and the environment. These agents are associated with human diseases that are generally treatable or preventable.

Biological Agent Requirements

  1. Agents that pose moderate risk to healthy adults (for example: Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species (spp.), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B virus).
  2. Typically transmitted via ingestion, percutaneous exposure, or mucous membrane exposure.
  3. Often agents for which effective treatment or prophylaxis is available.

Laboratory Practices

  1. All BSL-1 practices, plus:
    1. Limited access: Only authorized personnel may enter the lab.
    2. Biosafety manual must define any needed special procedures.
    3. Procedures that may produce aerosols or splashes should be performed in biosafety cabinets (BSCs) or with other physical containment devices.
    4. Careful handling of sharps (e.g., using safety needles, no recapping).
    5. Decontamination of all infectious materials before disposal.

Personnel Requirements

  1. Enhanced training in handling pathogenic agents.
  2. Supervision by individuals competent in handling infectious agents and the specific procedures used in the lab.
  3. Annual refresher training and awareness of hazards and emergency procedures.

Safety Equipment (Primary Barriers)

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
    1. Lab Coats (must be removed before leaving the lab)
    2. Gloves — must be worn during all procedures with potentially infectious materials.
    3. Face protection (goggles, mask, or face shield) when risk of splashes or sprays exists.
  2. Biological Safety Cabinets (Class I or II BSCs) for procedures that may produce aerosols or involve infectious agents.

Laboratory Facility Design (Secondary Barriers)

  1. Laboratory must have:
    1. Self-closing door to separate the lab from public areas.
    2. Handwashing sink must be located near the exit.
    3. Eye wash station must be readily available.
    4. Surfaces must be resistant to water and chemicals and easy to decontaminate.
    5. Autoclave should be available on-site, ideally in the lab.

Waste Disposal

  1. All biohazardous waste must be decontaminated (e.g., autoclaved or chemically disinfected) before disposal.
  2. Sharps must be discarded in puncture-resistant, labeled containers.
  3. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) must describe proper handling and disposal of biohazardous material.

Signage and Documentation

  1. Biohazard warning signs required at entrances:
    1. Include agent(s) in use, required PPE, entry restrictions, and emergency contacts.
  2. Written biosafety and exposure control plan must be available and followed.
  3. Accident and exposure reporting procedures must be in place.