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Biosafety: working safely at containment level 3

Overview

Managing the risks that arise from deliberate work with biological agents requires that sufficient management controls are in place in order to prevent or control the potential release of a biological agent.

This course aims to provide delegates with a greater understanding of the work carried out within a microbiological Containment Level 3 (CL3) facility by introducing them to the concepts and philosophy of working with biological agents at that level of containment.

The course is designed in line with the latest version of HSE's guidance document 'Management and operation of microbiological containment laboratories', which was redrafted by some of the course presenters and covers the design, management, maintenance, testing and legislative requirements associated with CL3 laboratory facilities.

It also explains the equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) required to work safely as well as provide the skills and confidence to deal with accidents and incidents.

The course is delivered using a combination of presentations and scenario-based exercises, as well as practical sessions in HSE's CL3 laboratory suite, to provide hands-on experience of the design, operation and use of such facilities.

Learning outcomes

Delegates will be provided with information that will help them to:

• Understand the relevant legislation, guidance and industry best practice for working at CL3
• Understand biosafety management and the safe systems of work required at CL3
• Understand the role of HSE and the HSE inspector, including how to prepare for an inspection using insight gathered on common enforcement topics

What the course will cover

This course provides an overview of the legislation, guidance and industry best practice, biosecurity and security, hazard criteria and categorisation and microbiological risk assessment.

Delegates will look at the use of PPE, biocontainment facilities and equipment, health and safety management and code of practice. Delegates will study disinfection, sterilisation and fumigation, waste management and what makes a good accident/emergency procedure. Human factors scientists will provide an insight into how to prevent accidents and design procedures.

Delegates will also look at cabinetry and laboratory design, working practices and the use of laboratory equipment. Classroom interactive sessions will help delegates understand the importance of management arrangements and practical sessions will be used to demonstrate how to work safely in a CL3 laboratory.

Who should attend?

The course is aimed at laboratory staff planning to work at CL3, safety advisors/biological safety officers, laboratory managers of CL3 facilities or as refresher training for current CL3 laboratory staff.

Previous experience of working at Containment Level 2 is assumed.

Who will present the course?

The course will be delivered by:

• members of the Microbiology Research Team with more than 40 years combined experience in occupational health and safety, including working with Hazard Group 3 pathogens;
• HSE microbiology specialists with responsibility for inspection of high containment laboratories who will provide an insight into regulatory and enforcement approaches;
• human factors specialists;
• PPE specialists; and
• ventilation systems specialists.

Book your place(s)

Course fees include all resources and a certificate of attendance (please note that all courses must be paid for via credit card at the time of booking).

Click the button below to view upcoming course dates, prices and to book your place(s).

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In-house training

This course can also be delivered to larger groups at a suitable, agreed location anywhere in the UK or internationally, online, or at the HSE Science and Research Centre. Content can also be tailored to meet organisations' own needs. Please get in touch to find out more.

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