Additional stipulations may be listed in your approval letter.

Biosafety Level 2 (BL2) builds upon Biosafety Level 1 (BL1). All requirements of BL1 are also required for BL2, with the addition of the following:

  • Work Practices
    • The Principal Investigator (PI) limits access to the laboratory and has final responsibility for determining who may enter or work in the laboratory.
    • The PI must ensure that the laboratory members demonstrate proficiency in procedures performed.
    • A sign incorporating the universal biohazard symbol must be posted at all entrances to the laboratory.
    • All persons entering the laboratory must be advised of the potential hazards and meet established entry/exit requirements.
    • This COMS approval letter must be available and accessible to all working in the laboratory.
    • Laboratory equipment should be routinely decontaminated (in addition to after spills and at the completion of work). Equipment must be decontaminated before repair or maintenance.
    • Animals not associated with the work being performed are not permitted in the laboratory.
    • Infectious material used in procedures with a potential for creating aerosols or splashes, or used in high concentrations or large volumes, must be handled in an annually certified biosafety cabinet.
    • Laboratory doors must be self-closing and remain unblocked.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Laboratory coats or gowns must be worn while working in the laboratory
  • References