Which statement about biosafety levels is NOT accurate?

• A. BSL-1 involves basic lab practices with standard PPE.
• B. BSL-3 uses no containment measures.
• C. Biosafety levels determine engineering controls, PPE, facility requirements, and practices.
• D. BSL-4 requires maximum containment and specialized facilities.

Answer: (B)

Biosafety levels define what controls are needed to prevent exposure, and those controls get more stringent as you move up the levels. The statement about BSL-3 using no containment measures isn’t accurate because BSL-3 is specifically designed to contain agents that can cause serious disease, often by aerosols. It requires containment through engineered controls like negative pressure rooms with directional airflow, controlled access, biosafety cabinets (Class II or higher), and PPE such as respirators, gowns, and gloves, plus procedures that minimize risk. In other words, containment is a core part of BSL-3, not something to be omitted.

The other statements fit typical descriptions: BSL-1 involves basic lab practices with standard PPE; biosafety levels determine engineering controls, PPE, facility requirements, and practices; and BSL-4 requires maximum containment and specialized facilities.