Biological
safety levels are ranked from one to four and are selected based on the agents
or organisms on which the research or work is being conducted. Each level up
builds on the previous level, adding constraints and barriers.
In
an overview of the safety levels, Vince McLeod has written an interesting
article for Laboratory Manager magazine.
Here
he writes: “The four biosafety levels were developed to protect against a world
of select agents. These agents include bacteria, fungi, parasites, prions, rickettsial
agents and viruses, the latter being probably the largest and most important
group. In many instances the work or research involves vertebrate animals,
everything from mice to cattle. When vertebrates are involved, additional
precautions and safety requirements are necessary. Using the most infectious
agents also means extensive security measures are in place, not only because of
their virulence but also because of their potential for use in bioterrorism.”
Posted by Tim Sandle
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