BIOS 242 Week 7 Biosafety

BIOS 242 Week 7 Biosafety

Student Name

Chamberlain University

BIOS-242 Fundamentals of Microbiology

Prof. Name:

Date

Lab 7: Biosafety Simulation Report

Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the construction and safety measures of a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory, including air flow and pressure control.
2. Describe the essential safety rules and practices in a BSL-3 laboratory, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
3. Safely handle microorganisms within a BSL-3 laboratory setting.
4. Explain fumigation procedures and the proper usage of microbiological safety cabinets.

Introduction:

The objective of this experiment is to engage with a virtual biosafety simulation to gain a comprehensive understanding of laboratory containment, specifically within a BSL-3 laboratory. A BSL-3 laboratory is designed to handle hazardous pathogens that can cause serious human diseases, including the potential for transmission via the air. The simulation offers the opportunity to explore laboratory containment systems, which involve strict protocols for safely manipulating harmful microorganisms. The experience introduces key concepts such as laboratory air pressure control, the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), and how laboratory design prevents contamination through secondary containment measures. Participants will also learn how to properly use microbiological safety cabinets and execute fumigation within these settings.

Laboratory Safety:

In the simulation, participants will familiarize themselves with the various biosafety protocols that are essential for maintaining a safe laboratory environment. This includes using PPE, such as lab coats, gloves, and eye protection, and understanding the importance of both primary and secondary containment. The laboratory itself is constructed to minimize the risk of contamination, with features such as negative air pressure and special ventilation systems. The simulation will also emphasize the importance of fumigation techniques and how they are executed within microbiological safety cabinets to ensure no hazardous pathogens escape. Additionally, participants will be presented with a scenario that involves identifying a potential bioterrorism agent, a microorganism classified as a hazard group 3 pathogen, to demonstrate the real-world implications of biosafety protocols.

Hazard Identification:

The simulation involves a hypothetical case where participants must identify a bioterrorism agent from a list of microorganisms. These pathogens are classified as hazard group 3 organisms, meaning they present significant risks to health and must be handled in a laboratory that meets the specifications for Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3). The simulation is built around UK biosafety regulations, though specific protocols may vary depending on local or national guidelines. By analyzing the risks associated with these pathogens, the user learns how biosafety containment levels are determined based on the potential danger they pose to both researchers and the surrounding environment.

Questions:

1. Purpose:

The purpose of this experiment is to evaluate the different biosafety levels and the appropriate containment methods for handling hazardous pathogens. This lab provides an opportunity to learn how to handle microorganisms such as Bacillus anthracis, which are to be managed in BSL-3 environments. The correct use of microbiological safety cabinets is also covered in the simulation.

2. What are the different biosafety levels?

• BSL-1
• BSL-2
• BSL-3
• BSL-4

3. What practices would you recommend for BSL-1 and how do these differ from BSL-2?

In a BSL-1 laboratory, basic safety practices, including wearing lab coats, gloves, and eye protection, are sufficient. In contrast, BSL-2 requires stricter safety measures, including restricted access to the lab during experiments, the use of a biological safety cabinet, and additional protective equipment, such as a face shield.

4. What organism was discussed in the simulation and which biosafety level is this pathogen handled in?

Bacillus anthracis was discussed, and it is handled in BSL-3 because it is capable of causing severe disease in humans and presents a serious risk to laboratory workers. It is not handled in BSL-4 because there are effective treatments and prophylactic measures available.

5. What does biosafety level 4 mean? What type of pathogens are handled in these labs?

BSL-4 represents the highest level of containment, where labs handle dangerous pathogens that can cause fatal diseases and are easily transmissible. These pathogens typically have no available treatment or prophylaxis.

Reflection:

From this simulation, I learned several critical aspects of laboratory safety, including the importance of maintaining proper air pressure and using microbiological safety cabinets. I also learned why different pathogens are handled in different biosafety levels, which is essential for ensuring the safety of laboratory workers. The simulation helped me understand how negative air pressure works to prevent contamination, and I now appreciate the importance of using a second pair of gloves to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. The use of an anteroom in high containment laboratories was also highlighted, which plays a crucial role in minimizing the spread of pathogens. Overall, I found the simulation informative and engaging, though I would have preferred a more hands-on experience with the equipment.

BIOS 242 Week 7 Biosafety

Grading Rubric:

• Activity Deliverable Points:
  • Lab Report and Questions:
    • Purpose (2 points)
    • Questions (8 points)
    • Reflection (5 points)
  • Total: 15 points
  • All Lab Deliverables: 15 points