Question

What biosafety level is attributed to microbiological agents that pose moderate risk, they are common human pathogens, and they require a biological safety cabinet (BSC) I or II, PPE, autoclave must be available, and limited access. (Most micro labs fall in this category)

a) BSL-1
b) BSL-2
c) BSL-3
d) BSL-4

Answer 1

BSL-2 (Biosafety Level 2) is the biosafety level for agents that pose moderate risk and are common human pathogens, requiring a BSC I or II, PPE, an autoclave, and controlled lab access.

Step-by-step explanation:

The biosafety level attributed to microbiological agents that pose a moderate risk, are common human pathogens, and require prescribed safety measures such as a Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) I or II, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), an autoclave, and limited lab access corresponds to BSL-2 (Biosafety Level 2).

Agents classified under BSL-2 are indigenous, and examples include bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp., as well as viruses like hepatitis, mumps, and measles viruses. These agents can pose moderate risks to laboratory workers and the community. In BSL-2 laboratories, additional biocontainment precautions beyond BSL-1 are taken, such as restricted access, use of face shields, and procedures to prevent aerosolization of infectious agents. The lab is also equipped with features like self-closing doors, an eyewash station, and an autoclave to sterilize materials effectively.

Answer 2

The correct biosafety level for agents that pose a moderate risk and are common human pathogens is BSL-2. These laboratories are equipped with specific safety features such as restricted access, personal protective equipment, and biological safety cabinets to handle pathogens safely. So, the correct option is b) BSL-2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The biosafety level (BSL) that applies to microbiological agents that pose a moderate risk, are common human pathogens, and require specific laboratory and safety measures is BSL-2. This level includes bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp., and viruses such as hepatitis, mumps, and measles viruses. BSL-2 laboratories implement additional safety requirements beyond those for BSL-1. These include restricted access, proper personal protective equipment (PPE), the use of biological safety cabinets (BSC), and the presence of an autoclave for the sterilization of materials. The PPE often includes lab coats, gloves, and possibly face shields. The work in these labs is typically performed with additional precautions such as containment in biological safety cabinets - either Class I or II - to prevent airborne transmission of infectious agents.

The characteristics of BSL-2 laboratories include self-closing doors, eyewash stations, and the availability of an autoclave on site. The safety of the lab personnel and the surrounding community must adhere to these guidelines. BSL encompasses four levels, with BSL-1 being the lowest and BSL-4 being the highest. The selection of the appropriate BSL depends on the infectious agent's risk to the lab workers, the community, its infectivity, transmission rate, and disease severity, along with the type of work that is being conducted with the agent.