BSL-3

BSL-3

Subject: Science

Context: India’s Covid-19 vaccination drive is unlikely to get much help from public sector institutions roped in to push up production of the indigenous vaccine, Covaxin. Barring Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), the Hyderabad-based subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board

Concept:

• Again building upon the two prior biosafety levels, a BSL-3 laboratory typically includes work on microbes that are either indigenous or exotic, and can cause serious or potentially lethal disease through inhalation. Examples of microbes worked with in a BSL-3 includes; yellow fever, West Nile virus, and the bacteria that causes tuberculosis.
• The microbes are so serious that the work is often strictly controlled and registered with the appropriate government agencies. Laboratory personnel are also under medical surveillance and could receive immunizations for microbes they work with.

Common requirements in a BSL-3 laboratory include:

• Standard personal protective equipment must be worn, and respirators might be required
• Solid-front wraparound gowns, scrub suits or coveralls are often required
• All work with microbes must be performed within an appropriate BSC
• Access hands-free sink and eyewash are available near the exit
• Sustained directional airflow to draw air into the laboratory from clean areas towards potentially contaminated areas (Exhaust air cannot be re-circulated)
• A self-closing set of locking doors with access away from general building corridors
• Access to a BSL-3 laboratory is restricted and controlled at all times.