BSL-1 labs are used
to study agents not known to consistently cause disease in healthy
adults. They follow basic safety procedures and require no special
equipment or design features. Examples of BSL-1 biological agents
include most microorganisms that are not a significant threat
to cause disease including most soil bacteria (i.e. Bacillus subtilis),
certain laboratory strains of E. coli; and bacteria commonly found
in food such as dairy products (i.e. Lactobacillus acidophilus).
Most university laboratories that are not designated at a higher
safety level are BSL-1. The vast majority of laboratories on the
MU campus are BSL-1.
BSL-2 labs are used
to study moderate-risk agents that pose a danger if accidentally
inhaled, swallowed or exposed to the skin. Safety measures include
the use of gloves and eyewear as well as handwashing sinks and
waste decontamination facilities. Examples of BSL-2 agents would
include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Salmonella
enterica. MU has many BSL-2 laboratories, including most of the
labs in the new Life Sciences Center.
BSL-3 labs are used
to study agents that can be transmitted through the air and cause
potentially lethal infection. Researchers perform lab manipulations
in a gas-tight enclosure. Other safety features include clothing
decontamination, sealed windows, and specialized ventilation systems.
Examples of biological agents studied in these labs includes West
Nile virus and Tularemia, which causes Rabbit Fever.
BSL-4 labs are used
to study agents that pose a high risk of life-threatening disease
for which no vaccine or therapy is available. Lab personnel are
required to wear full-body, air-supplied suits and to shower when
exiting the facility. The labs incorporate all BSL 3 features
and occupy safe, isolated zones within a larger building. Examples
of BSL-4 agents include Lassa Fever virus, Ebola virus, and other
hemorraghic fever viruses. Currently, there are no BSL-4 labs
in the Midwest.