Anthrax and BSL-3 Safety Procedures

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Questions and Answers

What type of pathogen is Bacillus anthracis?

Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium

Which of these statements about anthrax is NOT correct?

Anthrax is very contagious (correct)

Anthrax can be treated with antibiotics

Anthrax primarily affects livestock

Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis

What does HEPA stand for in HEPA filter?

High-Efficiency Particulate Air

What factor applies to Class III mode?

Provides a physical barrier between the user and the microbes Signup and view all the answers

In Class I mode, should the night panel be removed or attached?

Removed Signup and view all the answers

Should we put on the side panel in Class I mode?

On Signup and view all the answers

Why is Bacillus anthracis classified as Hazard Group 3?

It may spread to the community, but treatment is usually available Signup and view all the answers

Which facilities must be used if we have an Ebola sample?

BSL-4 Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important that negative air pressure is maintained inside the BSL-3 lab?

It minimizes the chance of a microorganism leaving the lab Signup and view all the answers

When should gloves and oversleeves be worn in a BSL-3 or CL3 lab?

Gloves should be worn at all times, but oversleeves only when working with the cabinet Signup and view all the answers

Which of these factors is NOT important regarding your buddy Marie after training?

Marie should remain in the lab with you at all times Signup and view all the answers

When should the CLEAN sign be used on the BSC?

When the cabinet contains nothing hazardous Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important that a sterility test is carried out?

To ensure the culture is completely sterile before being removed from the lab Signup and view all the answers

What should all work surfaces be cleaned with at the end of each working day?

5% Biocleanse Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements about personal protection equipment is correct?

Overshoes are put on in the anteroom and taken off in the lab Signup and view all the answers

Why do all staff need to sign in and out of the lab?

Only authorized people are allowed in the lab; a sign-out sheet keeps track of this Signup and view all the answers

When fumigating the lab, which of the following should NOT be carried out?

Fridge and freezer doors should be cleaned and opened Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Bacillus anthracis and Anthrax

Bacillus anthracis is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium responsible for Anthrax.
Anthrax is not highly contagious, contradicting the belief that it easily spreads between individuals.
Classified as Hazard Group 3 due to its potential to spread to the community, but effective treatments are available.

HEPA Filters and Containment Levels

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air, indicating its effectiveness in filtering airborne particles.
Containment Level 3 (BSL-3) is the standard for handling Anthrax, while Ebola requires Containment Level 4 (BSL-4).

Safety in BSL-3 Laboratories

Class III mode provides a protective barrier against microbial contamination.
In Class I mode, the night panel should be removed for optimal airflow into the cabinet.
Side panels in Class I mode should remain on to enhance airflow into the cabinet's front aperture.
Negative air pressure in BSL-3 labs is crucial to prevent microorganisms from escaping.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Cleanliness

Gloves must be worn at all times in BSL-3 labs; oversleeves are necessary only when working within the cabinet.
Personal protection equipment must be donned and removed in designated areas.
Overshoes are put on in anterooms and removed inside the lab for contamination control.

Lab Protocols and Sterility Testing

Sterility tests are essential to confirm cultures are free from contamination before leaving the lab.
A 5% Biocleanse solution must be used for cleaning work surfaces at the end of the working day.
The CLEAN sign on the biological safety cabinet is displayed when no hazardous materials are present.

Lab Access and Safety Measures

Signing in and out of the lab is mandatory to maintain access control and track authorized personnel.
During fumigation, fridge and freezer doors should not be opened or cleaned to ensure safety protocols are followed.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Bacillus anthracis, its role in anthrax, and the safety measures required in BSL-3 laboratories. This quiz covers effective treatments, containment levels, and laboratory safety protocols. Understand the importance of HEPA filters and airflow in preventing contamination.