This Standard sets out requirements, responsibilities and general guidelines relating to safe handling and containment of microorganisms and prions in laboratories. It includes animal, plant and invertebrate containment facilities (these may be integral or separate to the laboratory) where microbiological work such as research, teaching, diagnosis, quality control and regulatory analysis, e.g. of foodstuffs, water and effluents, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, is undertaken. It may also provide assistance to other laboratories where specimens that may contain pathogenic microorganisms and prions are handled, e.g. biochemistry and soil laboratories. This Standard should be read in conjunction with AS/NZS 2243.1, AS/NZS 2982.1, building codes in Australia and New Zealand and other relevant Parts of the AS/NZS 2243 series.

NOTES:

1 This Standard uses the term ‘containment facility' instead of historical terms such as plant houses, glass houses, insectaries and animal houses. For example, an animal house is referred to as an animal containment facility.

2 This Standard is not intended for genetic modification work not involving microorganisms, for which the appropriate body should be consulted. See Clause 2.3.

3 In addition to referenced documents, Appendix A contains references and related documents that are included in this Standard for additional information and guidance.

4 This Standard does not address aquatic containment facilities.