Department of Biology
Containmment measures for CL2 and CL3 laboratories (ACDP)
This table sets out the minimum containment requirements of the COSHH Regulations for work in CL2 and CL3 laboratories.
| Containment Measures | Level 2 | level 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Air handling | ||
| The workplace is maintained at air pressure negative to atmosphere | No, unless mechanically ventilated | Yes |
| Input air and extract air to the workplace are to be filtered using high efficiency particulate absorption (HEPA) or equivalent | No | Yes, on extract air |
| Security and access | ||
| Access is restricted to authorised people only | Yes | yes |
| The workplace is to be separated from any other activities in the same building | No | Yes |
| Efficient vector control, e.g. rodents and insects | Yes, for animal containment | Yes, for animal containment |
| An observation window, or alternative, is to be present so that occupants can be seen | No | Yes |
| Safe storage of a biological agent | yes | Yes |
| A laboratory is to contain its own equipment | No | Yes, so far as is reasonably practicable |
| Disinfection and disposal procedures | ||
| The workplace is to be sealable to permit disinfection | No | yes |
| Specified disinfection procedures | Yes | Yes |
| Surfaces impervious to water and easy to clean | Yes, for bench | Yes, for bench and floor (and walls for animal containment) |
| Surfaces resistant to acids, alkalis, solvents and disinfectants | Yes, for bench | Yes, for bench and floor (and walls for animal containment) |
| Incinerator for the disposal of animal carcasses | Accessible | Accessible |
| Protective equipment and procedures | ||
| Infected material, including any animal, is to be handled in a safety cabinet or isolator or other suitable equipment | Yes, where aerosol produced | Yes, where aerosol produced |
[Source: abstracted from 'The management, design and operation of microbiological containment laboratories, ACDP 2001'.]