Whats the difference between Biosafety Level 3 and Biosafety Level 4?
UofL’s lab will be a Level 3, which is used to study agents that can be transmitted through the air and cause potentially lethal infection. Researchers in Level 3 labs perform work in a strictly controlled environment. Clothing is decontaminated and there are specialized ventilation systems. Level 4 labs are used to study more dangerous agents, including those likely to cause life-threatening diseases that cannot be prevented, treated or cured. Lab personnel in Level 4 labs are required to wear full-body, air-supplied suits and work in safe, isolated zones within a larger building.
