Biosafety Level 2
Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) is a set of safety guidelines for laboratories that handle moderate-risk biological agents. These agents can cause illness in humans but are not easily transmitted through the air. BSL-2 labs are equipped with specific safety features, such as controlled access, personal protective equipment (PPE), and proper waste disposal systems to minimize exposure and contamination.
In a BSL-2 environment, researchers work with pathogens like HIV, Salmonella, and West Nile virus. Standard practices include handwashing, using biosafety cabinets for procedures that may generate aerosols, and ensuring that all laboratory surfaces are regularly disinfected.