Biosafety Level 3

The containment laboratory with a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) or Containment Level 3 (CL3) is designed for working with Hazard group 3 organisms.

Aerial view of lab room with three separate sections to walk through before entering the main lab room.

Figure: Biosafety Level 3

The characteristics of BSL-3 are:

  • Laboratory personnel has specific training in handling risk group 3 pathogens, and they are supervised by an experienced scientist.

  • The primary and secondary barriers are emphasized in order to minimize the release of infectious organisms into the environment.

  • Additional features that prevent transmission of Risk group 3 organisms:

    • Proper respiratory protection

    • HEPA filtration of exhausted laboratory air

    • Strictly controlled laboratory access


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