Biosafety Levels
Biological materials can pose risks to both personnel and the environment, necessitating their careful handling in compliance with established safety protocols.
Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1)
BSL-1 materials carry a minimal risk to the well-being of healthy adults and pose limited potential hazards to laboratory staff and the surroundings. While specialized laboratory equipment is not mandatory, adherence to standard safety procedures is imperative. Preventing aerosol formation and ensuring proper disinfection are essential practices.
You can purchase BSL-1 materials without needing a special permit.
Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2)
BSL-2 materials are linked to human diseases and present moderate risks to both healthy adults and the environment. Handling cell cultures within a biosafety cabinet is mandatory to mitigate the risk of aerosol exposure. Additionally, BSL-2 laboratories must be equipped with an autoclave and handwashing facilities, and access to these laboratories must be controlled.
Transporting BSL-2 materials requires the use of specialized logistics services and cannot be shipped via standard courier services.
Customers eligible to purchase BSL-2 materials without restrictions or permits include:
- Universities (within the EU)
- Governmental entities (within the EU)
- Human and veterinary medical examination facilities located in the EU, provided they engage in the following activities:
- Conduct sterility testing and other microbiological quality assurance work related to the manufacturing, testing, and monitoring of medicinal products and medical devices.
- Conduct sterility testing and other microbiological quality assurance work, if performed by physicians, veterinarians, or dentists, and are regulated by the respective professional chambers.
Authorization Type
If you intend to handle BSL-2 biomaterials, you must obtain the necessary authorization in accordance with §44 of the IfSG. Should there be any confusion regarding the exact type of authorization required, do not hesitate to get in touch with us for dedicated assistance.