Sample interview questions: Explain your knowledge of biosafety level (BSL) classifications and their relevance in a laboratory setting.
Sample answer:
Biosafety Level (BSL) Classifications
Biosafety level (BSL) classifications are a set of standards and practices designed to protect laboratory personnel, the environment, and the community from potentially hazardous biological agents. These classifications are based on the risk group of the agent being handled, which is determined by its ability to cause disease, the mode of transmission, and the availability of effective treatments or vaccines.
There are four main BSL classifications:
- BSL-1: This is the lowest level of biosafety and is used for agents that are not known to cause disease in healthy adults. Examples include common bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis.
- BSL-2: This level is used for agents that can cause disease in healthy adults, but which are not typically life-threatening. Examples include Salmonella enteritidis and Neisseria meningitidis.
- BSL-3: This level is used for agents that can cause serious or life-threatening diseases, but which are not easily transmitted through casual contact. Examples include Mycobacterium tuberculosis and HIV.
- BSL-4: This is the highest level of biosafety and is used for agents that are highly infectious and can cause life-threatening diseases. Examples include Ebola virus and Smallpox virus.
Relevance in a Laboratory Setting
BSL classifications are essential in a laboratory setting to ensure the safety of personnel, the environment, and the community. By following the appropriate BSL precautions, laboratories can minimize the risk of exposure to hazardous biological agents and reduce the potential for outbreaks.
Some of the key elements of BSL classifications include:
- Laboratory design and construction: BSL laboratories are designed to contain hazardous biological agents and prevent their escape into the environment. This includes features such as negative air pressure, sealed doors, and specialized ventilation systems.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): Laboratory perso… Read full answer