Biosafety Overview and Programs

A framework for protecting people, the environment, and other life from exposure to infectious agents and toxins.

Microorganisms (like viruses, bacteria, and fungi) or toxins produced by living things that can cause harm.

Potential dangers to human, animal, and plant health, and the environment, caused by biological agents.

Actions to identify biological hazards, evaluate health risks, and minimize contamination.

Microorganisms or toxins intentionally released to cause harm.

Evaluating how harmful a biological hazard is to humans.

Using biosafety to minimize harm to the environment from biological agents.

A strategic way to manage biological hazards that considers the connections between different areas, and potential consequences of the hazards moving between sectors.

A set of practices, training, equipment, and facilities designed to protect people, animals, and the environment from biological hazards in laboratories.

Measures to prevent infectious diseases from spreading from research centers or other places where they are studied or produced.

Measures to reduce the risk of loss, theft, misuse, or accidental release of pathogens and toxins.

The branch of biosafety focused on safe handling of biological materials in laboratories.

To contain potentially harmful biological agents, thereby ensuring the safety of people, animals, and the environment.

Safe methods, facilities, and equipment for managing potentially harmful biological agents.

Physical barriers that directly protect personnel from infectious agents. Examples include biosafety cabinets and personal protective equipment like gloves, masks, and lab coats.

Engineering features and practices that protect the environment from infectious agents. Examples include facility design, ventilation systems, and waste disposal procedures.

A primary barrier that creates a controlled environment for working with infectious materials, protecting both personnel and the surrounding environment.

Class I, Class II, and Class III. Each type offers different levels of protection based on the specific risks involved.

The physical features of a laboratory are designed to prevent accidental release of infectious materials and protect both personnel and the environment.

Laboratory directors are responsible for ensuring the facility meets the required biosafety level for the agents being handled.

Class I and Class II biosafety cabinets that provide protection from infectious materials through inward airflow and filtration.

To create barriers that protect lab workers, prevent accidental release of infectious agents, and safeguard the surrounding community.

A biosafety level where agents are moderately hazardous, potentially transmissible by aerosol, and require moderate containment measures.

The highest biosafety level, designed for highly dangerous and exotic agents that can be easily transmitted by aerosol and cause severe disease.

Devices like biosafety cabinets (BSC) or safety centrifuge cups used to physically isolate infectious materials and prevent exposure to lab personnel.

Protective items like splash shields, face protection, gowns, and gloves worn by lab personnel to prevent exposure to infectious materials.

The spread of infectious agents through tiny airborne particles, which can be inhaled and cause disease.

The ethical and responsible use of laboratory animals in research, testing, and teaching, ensuring proper care and humane treatment.

Vertebrate animals used in research, testing, or teaching, including traditional laboratory animals, agricultural animals, wildlife, and aquatic species.

The specific organism or biological entity that causes a particular disease.

A local committee at research facilities that reviews and approves animal research projects.

A federal law that requires humane care and treatment of animals used in research.

Guidelines for the humane care and use of laboratory animals, issued by the Public Health Service.

The IACUC has members with specific expertise: a veterinarian, a scientist, someone from a non-scientific background, and a public member representing community interests.

The IACUC reviews proposed research involving animals, including initial plans and any significant changes.

Animals in research can experience pain, discomfort, and negative side effects from interventions, diseases, or test substances.

These can include surgery, noxious stimuli, irritating substances, disease exposure, and test substances.

Animals might show symptoms like nausea and general discomfort due to research-related interventions.

Most animals thrive in 50% humidity, but can tolerate a range of 30% to 70% as long as the temperature is suitable for their species and the humidity stays consistent.

Varying humidity levels can affect animal health, breeding, and even drug responses, so keeping it consistent is crucial.

Although unavoidable in animal care facilities, noise should be minimized as it can stress animals and staff. Unexpected loud noises can be particularly harmful.

Loud noises can trigger seizures in some animals, highlighting how noise can have serious health consequences.

Monitoring and controlling strong odors is vital for animal welfare and staff safety. Odors can also mask underlying health issues.

Different species and even animals from different sources should be housed separately to prevent disease spread and aggression.

Detailed records for each animal are essential, documenting arrival time, sex, age, weight, breed, and any unique features.

When unavoidable, mix species and/or stocks with similar needs and personalities to ensure compatibility and minimize conflict.