Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) Laboratory

Design Standards

January 2020

CC Noncommercial License
This manual is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. When reusing the content
under this license, please provide (1) attribution to “Environment, Health & Safety at the University of California, Office of the
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the original source material appears.
Introduction
The University of California (UC) is home to some of the world’s most advanced and pioneering
biomedical science and clinical research. Consistently ranked among the leaders in the field of
Infectious Disease research, the UC is often called upon to provide critical expertise in response to
worldwide public health crises. Infectious Disease research involving highly pathogenic and primarily
aerosol transmissible agents (i.e., Risk Group 3 agents) has the potential to present significant risk
to individuals, the community, and the environment. The ability to safely conduct these research
activities is largely dependent upon the highly engineered Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory, the
highest-level containment facilities currently operated by the UC. The primary objective of these
laboratories is to provide the best possible physical containment of Risk Group 3 agents. Hence, the
design and engineering of these laboratories must be maintained at the highest attainable
standards.

Several authorities have published standards for the design of BSL-3 laboratories. Development of
the UC Biosafety Level 3 Design Standards has incorporated input from several of these sources,
including the following:

• CDC Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL), 5th Edition, 2009
• NIH Design Requirements Manual for Biomedical Laboratories and Animal Research
Facilities (DRM), 2019
• NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules
(NIH Guidelines), 2016
• National Institutes of Health Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory Certification Requirements,
2006
• Industry Standards and Best Practices

The information presented in these Standards addresses facility design and engineering systems for
BSL-3 containment laboratories and incorporates additional design elements to assist campuses in
conducting facility risk assessments. It is important to note that an effective BSL-3 program is not
only reliant upon the facility and engineering, but also operation and maintenance (O&M) protocols,
robust training programs, administrative controls, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Application
The BSL-3 Laboratory Design Standards represent the UC requirements for constructing BSL-3
laboratories. These Standards need to be referenced and used by UC design teams including

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS II FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

researchers, architects and engineers, as well as outside contractors. They provide necessary tools
and information for BSL-3 planning, construction, and commissioning on UC campuses. While
incorporating all applicable regulatory requirements, the standards identify UC requirements, provide
explanations of those standards, and document best practices for consideration during the facility
risk assessment. This range of acceptable parameters will allow campuses to build each laboratory
with a level of features commensurate with the facility risk assessment. These Standards pertain to
new facility builds and/or major renovations or retrofits of existing BSL-3 laboratory space. It is not
the intent of these Standards to require upgrades to existing BSL-3 spaces, but to provide design
standards and guidance when embarking on a new construction or major renovation project.

For the purposes of these Design Standards, major renovations/retrofits are defined as any of the
following: 1. Changes to fixed primary containment equipment (e.g. ducted BSCs or any other
devices connected to the BSL-3 exhaust system); 2. Changes to major HVAC systems/components
(e.g. exhaust fans, air handling units, airflow control valves, isolation dampers, Building Management
Systems / Building Automation Systems (BMS/BAS), ductwork, etc.); 3. Changes to floorplans or
structural components of the secondary containment boundaries (e.g. walls, ceilings, or attached
fixtures); 4. Any other changes to the facility that could impact overall safety, operations, or
ventilation system performance. This Standard is applicable to the specific retrofit and not meant to
apply to the entire facility. As plans to renovate specific features of an existing facility evolve, it is
important to address any identified issues that may affect the safe operations of a BSL-3 laboratory,
potentially presenting a risk to the UC community or the environment. These Standards have been
approved by the UC systemwide High Containment Laboratory Oversight Committee (HCLOC), and
shall be incorporated or referenced in Campus Building Standards.

Note: Facilities required to comply with the Federal Select Agent Program and/or Dual Use
Research of Concern may have additional biosafety or biosecurity design features beyond these UC
Standards. In addition to the UC Standards, campuses must reference and comply with the
applicable Federal regulatory standards when designing Federal Select Agent or Dual Use Research
high-containment facilities.

Campus Involvement
At the onset of a new BSL-3 laboratory or existing laboratory renovation design project, it is
important to consider the involvement of specific campus experts. Consultation with these key
campus members may provide insight into critical design flaws that may affect specific aspects of
the laboratory’s functionality. These contributions could prove to be exceptionally cost-effective in

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terms of both time and resources. Involvement from the following campus members is
recommended:
• PI (researcher)/Department Chair
• EH&S Biosafety
• High Containment Laboratory Director
• Campus Design Management Group
• Capital Programs
• UC Building Officials
• Campus ADA Reviewer
• Campus Security or Campus Police Department
• Campus Emergency Response
• Campus Fire Marshal
• Campus Facilities Operations & Management Group

Deviations
Campuses must comply with the UC Biosafety Level 3 Design Standards and Best Practices should
be considered when appropriate. When justified by a documented risk assessment, a deviation may
be considered. A campus seeking a deviation approval must first complete the UC BSL3 Design
Standards Deviation Request Form, Appendix I. The completed form and requested
documentation shall be presented to the campus High Containment Laboratory Oversight Group
(HCLOG) for approval. With campus HCLOG approval, the deviation request will be presented to
the UC systemwide HCLOC, for final approval.

Revisions to the Standards

A full review and revision of the UC BSL3 Design Standards shall be conducted every two years, on
even years. Between full revisions, the Design Standards may be revised on an as needed basis via
continual evaluation and application. Through the use of these Design Standards, any identified
gaps, errors, or sections requiring further clarification will be noted and highlighted by local EH&S
and Design professionals. Corrections, clarifications and all identified issues shall be presented to
the UC systemwide HCLOC for confirmation and approval. Once approved by the HCLOC, updates
will be completed and distributed to each location. Revised versions of the Standards must receive
approval by the UC systemwide HCLOC prior to implementation.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS IV FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Table of Contents
List of Codes, Standards and Guidelines ......................................................................................... 1

BSL-3 Architectural.............................................................................................................................. 2

General ............................................................................................................................................... 2

Containment Barrier ........................................................................................................................... 3

Anterooms .......................................................................................................................................... 4

Doors .................................................................................................................................................. 5

Windows ............................................................................................................................................. 6

Floors.................................................................................................................................................. 7

Base ................................................................................................................................................... 7

Walls ................................................................................................................................................... 7

Ceilings ............................................................................................................................................... 8

Access Panels .................................................................................................................................... 9

Finishes .............................................................................................................................................. 9

Furniture ...........................................................................................................................................10

Sealing ..............................................................................................................................................11

BSL-3 Architectural References ....................................................................................................... 13

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning .......................................................................................... 19

HVAC References ............................................................................................................................24

Electrical .............................................................................................................................................27

Electrical References ....................................................................................................................... 34

Plumbing .............................................................................................................................................38

Water Distribution .............................................................................................................................39

Vacuum Line.....................................................................................................................................39

Sinks .................................................................................................................................................40

Shower .............................................................................................................................................41

Drains ...............................................................................................................................................41

Traps ................................................................................................................................................42

Waste Pipe Cleanout........................................................................................................................ 43

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS V FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Plumbing References ....................................................................................................................... 44

Telecom, Security & Documentation ............................................................................................... 47

Telecom ............................................................................................................................................47

Security.............................................................................................................................................47

Signage ............................................................................................................................................49

Enhanced Facilities ..........................................................................................................................50

Verification & Documentation ........................................................................................................... 50

Seismic .............................................................................................................................................51

Telecom, Security & Documentation References ............................................................................ 52

Safety and Decontamination............................................................................................................. 53

Safety ...............................................................................................................................................53

Decontamination ..............................................................................................................................55

Safety and Decontamination References ........................................................................................ 57

BSL-3 Standard Equipment .............................................................................................................. 59

Autoclaves ........................................................................................................................................59

Biosafety Cabinets ...........................................................................................................................60

Flow Cytometry ................................................................................................................................61

Centrifuge .........................................................................................................................................61

BSL-3 Standard Equipment References .......................................................................................... 62

CC Noncommercial License
This manual is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. When reusing the content
under this license, please provide (1) attribution to “Environment, Health & Safety at the University of California, Office of the
President”; (2) the following copyright notice: © The Regents of the University of California; and (3) if feasible, a hyperlink to where
the original source material appears.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS VI FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

List of Codes, Standards and Guidelines
• Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) 5th Edition, 2009
https://www.cdc.gov/labs/pdf/CDC-BiosafetyMicrobiologicalBiomedicalLaboratories-2009-P.PDF

The BMBL is published jointly by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the
Centers for Disease Control and the National Institutes of Health. The document describes
Biological risk assessment, lab practices, safety equipment, and facilities requirements required
for designing and operating laboratories at Biosafety Levels (BSL) 1 through 4. Although not a
code, certification of BSL facilities is dependent on following the recommendations in this
document.

• NIH Design Requirements Manual (DRM) 2019 Rev 1.4: 4/24/19

https://www.orf.od.nih.gov/TechnicalResources/Documents/DRM/DRM1.4042419.pdf

• National Institutes of Health Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory Certification Requirements, July 2006
https://www.orf.od.nih.gov/PoliciesAndGuidelines/Bioenvironmental/Documents/BSL-3
CertificationGuidelinesFINAL_508.pdf

• ANSI/ASSE Z9.14-2014 Testing and Performance-Verification Methodologies for Ventilation

Systems for Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) and Animal Biosafety Level 3 (ABSL-3) Facilities -
This document can be purchased at: https://store.assp.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Store/Product-
Details/productId/11562952

• NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH
Guidelines), 2016

• University of California Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) Laboratory Safety Design Guide,
Second Edition, September 2007

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 1 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 BSL-3 Architectural
General
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

New UC BSL-3 laboratories and designated Access to the BSL-3 laboratory and work N/A
retrofits must be reviewed for compliance with activities conducted in the facility must be
applicable provisions of the American with evaluated on a case-by-case basis to
Disabilities Act (ADA) and related codes and determine appropriate accommodations
regulations. and accessibility. Work with the
appropriate units on campus to determine
specific ADA design requirements and
compliance with Title 24 California
Building Code Chapter 11 Accessibility.

Design the laboratory to be easily cleaned and Smooth walls, floors, and ceilings with N/A
decontaminated. 1, 2, 3, 4 finish that is resistant to repeated
chemical decontamination.

Keep the BSL‐3 laboratory separate from un‐ N/A Consider locating the facility on an
secured high traffic areas. 5, 6, 7 upper floor. Consider location of
BSL‐3 laboratories in relation to
other zones such as BSL‐2 support
laboratories, offices and break
rooms, elevators, loading docks,
etc. for effects on laboratory
pressurization and airflow.

Provide dedicated anteroom to include space Dedicated anteroom is accessed through N/A
for personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-closing doors that should be
waste. Doors are self-closing. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 physically interlocked with over‐ride for
emergency use.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 2 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Provide access to non‐containment laboratory The needs of the research program and Workflow should be mapped during
support spaces in close proximity to the BSL‐3 research staff must be considered in initial design phase.
laboratory, including but not limited to BSL-2 design and location of support spaces.
workspace, storage, and break rooms. 13, 14, 15,
16

Sealed penetrations (through partitions, walls, Sealed penetrations should be visible for N/A
floors and ceilings) are required. 17, 18, 19, 20 ease of inspection and verification.

Primary containment devices must be placed Primary containment equipment such as Consider Appendix A of the DRM
in such a way as to minimize impact of room BSCs, shall be placed in the room so that and Appendix A of the BMBL for
airflow on function/containment. This must be containment is not impacted by supply exact distances from features and
determined in conjunction with the High diffusers, exhaust grilles, doors, traffic for placement in a space.
Containment Laboratory Director (HCLD). 21, 22, flow, or other equipment.
23, 24

Containment Barrier
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Partitions must be designed to resist damage N/A N/A

from differential air pressure surges during
HVAC testing, and to withstand water and
moisture. Interior partitions (walls) must extend
slab to slab. 25

Construct BSL‐3 containment barrier with steel Frame partition assemblies shall include N/A
studs, sheet rock and appropriate backing gypsum board that is selected and
material. 26, 27 detailed to be appropriately impact,
moisture and water resistant. Standard
gypsum board is not acceptable. Light-
gauge steel studs used for partition
framing shall be 18-gauge minimum
thickness.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 3 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Screw spacing in gypsum wallboard
assemblies shall not exceed 152 mm (6
in.). Structural adequacy shall be verified,
and additional lateral reinforcement
provided if required. All partitions that do
not extend to the underside of the
structure shall be capped. Concrete
masonry units (CMU) walls shall include
masonry units utilizing fine sand
aggregate or ground face to provide an
appropriate substrate for block filler and
epoxy paint. Voids in CMU partitions shall
be sealed above the ceiling.

Anterooms
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Anteroom doors must be self-closing and have N/A N/A

a mechanism for interlocking. Mechanically
interlocked doors must have an emergency
override. 28, 29, 30, 31, 32

Anterooms must be appropriately sized for Provide anteroom large enough to allow Anteroom should also include space
program requirements based on risk for a change bench, storage shelves for for a logbook and wall calendar. If
assessment and considerations for future clean PPE, laundry receptacle and waste the anteroom will be the main
expansion of research focus. Anterooms must container. entryway for equipment, size
be sized to meet local Fire Code requirements. appropriately for largest piece of
equipment, including door sizes.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 4 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Doors
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Doors must have door locks access controls Electronic lock systems shall be linked to Consider including biometric or PIN
that allows for fast and efficient removal of restricted remote access management devices for locks on doors access
access clearance, such as card keys. Hard software. Adhere to any local/UC policy control based on risk assessment.
key access must be off master and provided (UCOP IS-3 policy)
as a backup to electronic lock systems.
Electronic locks must fail secure with a bypass
for egress. 33, 34, 35

Doors must be self‐closing and self- latching. N/A N/A

Doors with locks must be self-locking. 36, 37, 38

Door must be welded steel or fiberglass Wooden doors and frames are not Provide 42 in. single leaf doors.
constructed of sufficiently durable material permitted.
(e.g.: stainless steel, FRP, or epoxy-painted
welded steel) with welded steel frames, and
large enough for passage of equipment. 39

Doors shall be seamless with no top or bottom N/A N/A

recesses. Cutouts in doors and frames shall
be sealed to enhance sanitation and resist air
infiltration. Doors and door hardware shall be
free of sharp edges. Door hardware shall be
easily operated with PPE. 40

Door sweeps must be provided for pest Broom sweeps, no rubber sweeps. N/A
control, but must be adjustable to facilitate
inward airflow movement. 41, 42

Provide stainless steel kick plates. 43 N/A N/A

Vision panels must be in all interior doors Vision panels in exterior doors should be N/A

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 5 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 unless prohibited for programmatic reasons. 44, sealed and rated for fifteen-minute forced
45
entry break resistance.

Access to the laboratory must be through two Egress only doors may be single door N/A
interlocked doors; provide interlock over‐ride configuration. No hardware on outside of
for emergency use. 46, 47, 48 the door.

Door swing direction must be determined in N/A Doors should swing in the direction
discussion with EH&S and Fire Marshal. 49 of airflow (clean to dirty).

No pocket doors, bifold or sliding doors. 50, 51 N/A N/A

Doors serving locations that require directional Airflow through undercut doors allows for N/A
airflow shall be configured to allow for containment airflow and plays a role in
sufficient air movement at the undercut to establishing operating pressure
achieve proper operation without excessive differential between spaces, which
pull or closure pressure.52 requires verification of height and airflow
to ensure proper cascading pressurization
control of the facility.

Windows
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

All windows must be appropriately sealed and N/A Windows on perimeter walls or
non‐operable. 53, 54, 55, 56, 57 doors should be considered only
after a security assessment.

Window frames must be fully welded and N/A If windows are located on perimeter
sealed. 58 walls, they should be appropriately
• Provide laminated and tempered glass at glazed, as described in the DRM.
all windows

Sills must be sloped for ease of cleaning. 59 N/A N/A

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 6 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Floors
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Carpets and rugs are not permitted. 63, 64 N/A N/A

Provide monolithic seamless welded sheet N/A N/A

vinyl or troweled‐on epoxy floors with integral
coved base. Floor must be chemical resistant
and impermeable to liquids. 65, 66, 67, 68, 69
• Floors shall have a slip resistant finish.

Floors of mechanical rooms and interstitial N/A Floors of mechanical rooms and
levels located above biocontainment areas interstitial levels located directly
shall be designed to prevent leaks. above biocontainment areas should
Penetrations through the floor shall be be marked to indicate the location of
protected by raised curbs or sleeves. 70, 71 rooms and utility distribution below
where possible.

Base
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Floors shall be monolithic with an integral N/A N/A

coved base 6 inches’ minimum height, sealed
to the wall finish. 72, 73

Walls
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Walls shall be durable, monolithic, and N/A Corner guards and bumper rails
resistant to chemicals and disinfectants. Walls should be provided to protect wall
shall be sealed to the base, ceiling, surface in high traffic/impact areas.
doorframes, cover plates, and all other

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 7 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 openings and penetrations. Epoxy paint or
panelized composite systems are standard.
Wall construction and materials must be
selected to ensure compatibility with finish
systems, and to provide a smooth, void-free
substrate. 74, 75, 76

Suite walls must be full height, extending to N/A N/A

the structural deck above. 77, 78

Ceilings
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Finish monolithic ceiling with a durable Ceilings shall be monolithic, seamless N/A
moisture resistant substrate such as epoxy construction. Ceiling systems shall be
paint that is resistant to all chemical and designed to resist damage from deflection
cleaning agents that may be used. 79, 80, 81, 82, 83 caused by differential air pressure surges
that may occur during HVAC fan-failure
testing. Ceiling material and support
systems shall be designed to be moisture
and sag resistant.
• Ceilings shall be durable and resistant
to moisture, wash-downs and
pressurization. Ceilings shall be
monolithic, seal to the walls, and with
sealed access panel, lights, diffusers,
and other ceiling-mounted devices.
Epoxy painted gypsum board or
panelized composite systems are
standard. Gypsum board shall not be
standard wall board, but must be
specified and detailed to be
appropriately moisture and sag
resistant. Acoustical tile celling
systems are not acceptable.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 8 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 The ceiling must be high enough over BSCs to N/A N/A
allow appropriate duct or thimble connections.
Allowances for maintenance access must be
included. Clearances must be per NSF49. 84

Access Panels
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Minimize access panels. Any access panels N/A Locate access panels outside the
must be gasketed and latched to allow for BSL‐3 suite.
room decontamination. Access panels must be
piano type hinged. 85, 86

Finishes
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

The interior finishes of a BSL-3 shall form a N/A BSL-3 wall and ceiling finishes,
durable, monolithic, impermeable enclosure. unless factory finished, should have
Mock-ups of all finishes shall be provided for high performance reinforced multi-
review and approval, and as a basis for coat resinous paint finish (reinforced
acceptance of the final installation. The mock- epoxy paint or equivalent). Paint
ups shall be constructed in the same applicators should be Society for
conditions, and using the same materials and Protective Coatings (SSPC) Coating
techniques as the final installation. The mock- Application Specialist (CAS Level II)
ups shall include all typical conditions, Certified, and should be trained and
including sealants, transitions between approved by the paint manufacturer.
materials, inside and outside corners. 87, 88, 89 All high performance resinous paint
applications should be inspected by
an independent third party Coating
Inspector Program (CIP) level 3
certified inspector.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 9 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 All finishes in the BSL‐3 laboratory shall be N/A N/A
chemical resistant and resistant to
decontamination agents.

Furniture
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Laboratory furniture must be sturdy and N/A N/A

capable of supporting anticipated loads and
uses. 90

Spaces between benches, cabinets and Fixed millwork, casework, and N/A
equipment must be accessible for cleaning. 91, countertops shall either be sealed to walls
92
and floors or positioned with sufficient
spacing to facilitate cleaning and minimize
harborage of pests.

Bench tops must be impervious to water and N/A Bench tops should be epoxy,
resistant to heat, organic solvents acids, stainless steel, or phenolic resin.
alkalis, and other chemicals. 60, 61, 62, 93, 94

Chairs must be covered with non‐porous N/A Consider ergonomic needs when
chemical and decontaminant resistant choosing chairs. Adhere to any
material. 95, 96 local/UC policy.

Shelving standards shall be open fronted or N/A N/A

otherwise detailed to allow for full sanitation.
Slotted standards with inaccessible concealed
areas are not allowed. 97

Cabinets shall be designed without N/A N/A

inaccessible areas that cannot be easily
sanitized or disinfected. Joints, holes, and

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 10 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 anchors shall be sealed. 98

Casework finishes shall be resistant to agents N/A N/A

used for decontamination. Stainless steel,
phenolic resin, or other corrosion-resistant
materials shall be used in damp or corrosive
environments. 99

Minimize cabinet space in the BSL‐3 N/A Provide mobile cabinets or

laboratory. Movable tables, mobile base units, suspended cabinets. If mobile
and cantilevered bench tops shall be used cabinets are installed, provide
whenever possible. Where fixed casework method for decontaminating
components must be used, they must be set casters. Suspended cabinets allow
on monolithic bases to facilitate installation of space below the bench to be easily
integral cover flooring base. Void areas behind cleaned.
fixed case work must be sealed to walls. All
fixed items must be sealed to the floor, wall, Cabinets should have sloped tops
and adjacent items. 100 or be built up to the ceiling to
maintain cleanliness.

Sealing
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Refer to NIH DRM Appendix L, Sealant Table N/A N/A

for areas to be sealed and sealant type.

Doorframes, hinges and latches must be N/A N/A

sealed. 101

Ductwork must be sealed where it penetrates N/A N/A

the barrier. Supply and exhaust grills must be
sealed where it meets barrier surface. 102

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 11 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

All windows in the laboratory must be sealed. N/A N/A
103, 104

All penetrations into and through partitions, N/A N/A

floors, and ceilings shall be sealed to enhance
sanitation, facilitate gas and vapor
decontamination, and resist air infiltration.
Piping, ductwork, electrical boxes, and other
penetrating items shall be firmly anchored to
resist movement that could damage seals.
Penetrations shall be visible for inspection and
maintenance. 105, 106, 107

Seams between walls, floors, and ceilings and N/A N/A

between all dissimilar materials shall be fully
sealed. Sealant at movement joints shall be
applied after installation of high-performance
finishes to resist cracking. 108, 109

Sealant shall be applied in a uniform, smooth, N/A N/A

and continuous manner, resulting in a finish
free of voids, pinholes, sharp edges, or excess
sealant. Sealant must be compatible with all
material that comes in contact with it, including
other sealant. Sealant must have chemical
resistance, flexibility, durability, adherence,
and other characteristics appropriate for its
use. 110
• Where required, apply sealant before
application of fire stopping.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 12 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

BSL-3 Architectural References
1. The laboratory must be designed so that it can be easily cleaned and decontaminated. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
2. The interior finishes of a BSL-3 facility shall form a durable, monolithic, impermeable enclosure. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5
3. Clean-ability of all surfaces including furniture. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.2.A
4. Visual inspection of the Architectural features of the laboratory spaces. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
5. The laboratory must be separated from areas that are open to unrestricted traffic flow within the building. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety
Level 3.D.1
6. A biocontainment laboratory shall not be accessed from the exterior, but through a lower-risk laboratory area (generally BSL-2) with locks,
card readers, and other appropriate security devices. NIH DRM Section 4.9.2.1
7. The laboratory is separated from areas which are open to unrestricted traffic flow within the building. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-a
8. Access to the laboratory is through two self‐closing doors. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.1
9. Movement of staff, materials, equipment, and waste in and out of the containment zone requires the use of a directionally pressurized
anteroom to provide separation from areas with unrestricted traffic flow. Anterooms shall be designed to accommodate the storage and
donning of required PPE. This Passage shall be arranged with two sets of self-closing doors. The anteroom doors shall be interlocks to
prevent simultaneous opening of doors between the outside corridor and containment areas. Entrance interlocks, when present, shall be
provided with a manual override for use in case of emergency. NIH DRM Section 2.5.3.5
10. Visual inspection: Access to the laboratory should be through a series of two self-closing interlocked doors. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
11. Inspect two self-closing doors. Doors should not open simultaneously. Ensure that doors automatically close and latch. Check function of
door interlock systems or facility SOPs as appropriate. Check the distance between entrance door from the anteroom for adequate door
operation. Check emergency over‐rides of door interlocks. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.3
12. Passage through two sets of doors is the basic requirement for entry into the laboratory from access corridors or other contiguous areas.
Physical separation of the high containment laboratory from access corridors or other laboratories or activities may be provided by a double-
door clothes change room (showers may be included), airlock, or other access facility which requires passage through two sets of doors
before entering the laboratory. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-a
13. Food must be stored outside the laboratory area in cabinets or refrigerators designated and used for this purpose. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.A.3
14. Personnel support areas required for the safe conduct of laboratory work shall be provided at appropriate locations. NIH DRM Section
2.1.3.3
15. Assess location of BSL‐3 laboratories in relation to BSL‐2 support laboratories, offices and break rooms, elevators, loading docks, etc. for
effects on laboratory pressurization and airflow. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.3
16. Appropriate directional airflow between containment support spaces and adjacent areas shall be maintained and verified in accordance with
the risk assessment. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.4.10
17. Seams, walls, floors, and ceiling surfaces should be sealed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
18. All penetrations into and through partitions, floors, and ceiling shall be sealed to enhance sanitation, facilitate gas and vapor decontamination,
and resist air infiltration. Penetrations shall be visible for inspection and maintenance. NIH DRM Section 4.9.6
19. Inspect, & Evaluate Architectural Features for Maintenance, Operations (Finishes, penetrations & caulking integrity such as doors, around

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 13 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 the ceilings, lighting fixtures, electrical devices, etc. within containment to meet requirements) NIH BSL-3 Certification Section 1.2
20. Properly sealed laboratory surfaces are essential to maintain controlled directional airflow and ventilation system performance. Room
leakage or tightness is also critical when gaseous fumigants are used for decontamination. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
21. BSCs must be installed so that fluctuations of the room air supply and exhaust do not interfere with proper operations. BSCs should be
located away from doors, heavily traveled laboratory areas, and other possible airflow disruptions. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level
3.D.6
22. Primary containment equipment such as BSCs and individual ventilated caging (IVC) shall be placed in the room so that containment is not
impacted by supply diffusers or exhaust grilles or doors or traffic flow. NIH DRM Section 6.6.1.F
23. Verify correct placement of biological safety cabinets with respect to supply and exhaust diffusers, doors and traffic patterns. NIH BSL-3
Certification Section II.26
24. Verify correct placement of primary containment equipment (fume hoods, BSCs, etc.) with respect to air devices, doors, and traffic patterns.
ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.7
25. Partitions in a biocontainment facility shall be selected to withstand pressurization, impacts and water or moisture. Partition material and
detailing shall minimize differential movement. Interior partitions which are part of the secondary barrier shall extend to and be sealed to the
underside of the structure. Additionally, partitions shall comply with all physical security requirements as dictated by a threat risk assessment.
NIH DRM Section 4.9.4
26. Frame partition assemblies shall include gypsum board that is selected and detailed to be appropriately impact and moisture or water
resistant. Standard gypsum board is not acceptable. Light-gauge steel studs used for partition framing shall be 18-gauge minimum thickness.
NIH DRM Section 4.9.4
27. Screw spacing in gypsum wallboard assemblies shall not exceed 152 mm (6 in.). Structural adequacy shall be verified, and additional lateral
reinforcement provided if required. All partitions that do not extend to the underside of the structure shall be capped. Concrete masonry
units (CMU) walls shall include masonry units utilizing fine sand aggregate or ground face to provide an appropriate substrate for block filler
and epoxy paint. Voids in CMU partitions shall be sealed above the ceiling. NIH DRM Section 4.9.4
28. A clothing change room (anteroom) may be included in the passageway between the two self-closing doors. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.1
29. An anteroom for clean storage of equipment and supplies with dress‐in, shower‐out capabilities may be required based on agent summary
statement, risk assessment, or applicable local, state, or federal regulations. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.14
30. Movement of staff, materials, equipment, and waste in and out of the containment zone requires the use of a directionally pressurized
anteroom to provide separation from areas with unrestricted traffic flow. Anterooms shall be designed to accommodate the storage and
donning of required PPE. This Passage shall be arranged with two sets of self-closing doors. The anteroom doors shall be interlocks to
prevent simultaneous opening of doors between the outside corridor and containment areas. Entrance interlocks, when present, shall be
provided with a manual override for use in case of emergency. NIH DRM Section 2.5.3.5
31. Anteroom doors are far enough apart that large pieces of equipment can be moved in or out. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.4.3
32. Passage through two sets of doors is the basic requirement for entry into the laboratory from access corridors or other contiguous areas.
Physical separation of the high containment laboratory from access corridors or other laboratories or activities may be provided by a double-
door clothes change room (showers may be included), airlock, or other access facility which requires passage through two sets of doors
before entering the laboratory. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-a.
33. Doors must have locks in accordance with the institutional policy. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.1

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 14 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 34. A biocontainment laboratory shall not be access from the exterior, but through a lower-risk laboratory area, with locks, card readers, and
other appropriate security devices. NIH DRM Section 4.9.2.1.A
35. Laboratory doors are kept closed when experiments are in progress. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-2-a
36. External facility doors must be self‐closing and self-locking. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.1
37. The BMBL requires directional airflow into the containment zone through two self-closing doors. NIH DRM Section 2.5.3.7.E
38. Access doors to the laboratory or containment module are self-closing. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-g
39. Doors shall be stainless steel, fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP), epoxy –painted welded steel or another durable material. Frames shall
be fully welded, sized for the passage of large equipment, and shall have stainless steel protection plates. Knock-down frames are not
permitted. NIH DRM Section 4.9.3.2
40. Doors shall be seamless with no top or bottom recesses. Cutouts in doors and frames shall be sealed to enhance sanitation and resist air
infiltration. Doors and door hardware shall be free of sharp edges. Door hardware shall be easily operated with PPE. NIH DRM Section
2.6.2.6
41. An effective integrated pest management program is required. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.A.10
42. Door sweeps shall be adjustable to facilitate air movement. NIH DRM Section 4.9.3.2
43. Provide stainless steel armor, kick, mop, and stretcher plates on doors based on door location and room use. Center plates horizontally on
the door at a width 2 inches less than the door width. Door plates shall maintain UL rating, and must be specified in the door schedule. NIH
DRM Section 4.2.1.6.E
44. Vision panels shall be in all doors unless prohibited for programmatic reasons. NIH DRM Section 4.9.3.2
45. Select Agent Laboratories: Vison panels shall be sealed and rated for fifteen minute forced entry break resistance. NIH DRM Section
4.2.2.8.D
46. Laboratory doors must be self-closing and have locks in accordance with the institutional polices. Access to the laboratory is through two
self-closing doors. A clothing change room (anteroom) may be included in the passageway between the two self-closing doors. BMBL 5th
ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.1
47. Required entrances and exits must be configured in vestibules with interlocking doors and directional airflow to maintain the integrity of the
barrier. NIH DRM Section 2.5.0.2.a
48. Access to the laboratory should be through a series of two self-closing interlocked doors. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
49. Doors serving biocontainment laboratories ordinarily swing in the direction of air movement (clean to dirty). NIH DRM Section 4.2.2.3.A
50. Pocket doors, bifold doors, and accordion doors are not permitted in HIH biomedical laboratories or animal research facilities. NIH DRM
Section 4.2.1
51. Manual surface mounted sliding doors may be allowed under the following conditions: Serving rooms which are low hazard and low
occupancy. Serving a room with a non-laboratory function. Not required for fire rating or pressurization. NIH DRM Section 4.2.1
52. Doors serving locations that require directional airflow shall be configured to allow for sufficient air movement at the undercut to achieve
proper operation without excessive pull or closure pressure. NIH DRM Section 4.9.3.2
53. All windows in the laboratory must be sealed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.5
54. Operable windows are not permitted in NIH research laboratories and ARFs (animal research facilities). NIH DRM Section 4.1.4.A
55. Inspect caulking integrity for non‐operable windows. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.2
56. Inspect: Windows on containment perimeter wall are non‐operable and sealed‐in‐place type construction. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
57. Windows in the laboratory are closed and sealed. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-f

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 15 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 58. All window frames shall be fully welded and sealed. Frames shall be foam filled or otherwise seal to prevent infiltration. When windows are
located in the barrier wall, removable glazing stops shall be located on the non-containment side of the barrier. Glazing shall be tempered
safety or laminated glass. NIH DRM Section 2.6.2.7
59. All interior window sill shall be sloped, and all windows shall be sealed to ensure ease of cleaning and decontamination. NIH DRM Section
4.1.4.E
60. Bench tops must be impervious to water and resistant to heat, organic solvents acids, alkalis, and other chemicals. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.4.a
61. Bench tops shall be epoxy, stainless steel, or phenolic resin. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8.E
62. Bench tops are impervious to water and resistant to acids, alkalis, organic solvents, and moderate heat. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-
4-c.
63. Carpets and rugs not permitted. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
64. Carpeting is not permitted in any area of the laboratory, including office areas that can only be accessed by passing through a laboratory.
NIH DRM Section 4.4.3.2.C
65. Floors must be slip resistant. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.a
66. Floors must be impervious to liquids. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.a
67. Consideration should be given to the installation of seamless, sealed, resilient, or poured floors, with integral coves. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.a
68. Floors must be resistant to chemicals. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.a
69. Floors shall be durable, slip-resistant and resistant to degradation from chemicals, disinfectants, and decontaminants. Floors shall be
monolithic with an integral coved base 6 in. minimum height, sealed to the wall finish. The floor shall extend under all equipment and
casework. Heat-welded sheet vinyl is most typically used in BSL-3 laboratories, and epoxy is standard where high durability or load capacity
is required. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5.1
70. Floors of mechanical rooms and interstitial levels located above biocontainment areas shall be designed to prevent leaks. Penetrations
through the floor shall be protected by raised curbs or sleeves. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5.1
71. Floors of mechanical rooms and interstitial levels located directly above biocontainment areas shall be marked to indicate the location of
rooms and utility distribution below where possible. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5.1
72. Consideration should be given to the installation of seamless, sealed, resilient, or poured floors, with integral coves. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.a
73. Floors shall be monolithic with an integral coved base 6 inches minimum height, sealed to the wall finish. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5.1
74. Walls should be constructed to produce a sealed smooth finish that can be easily cleaned and decontaminated. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.b
75. Walls shall be durable, monolithic, and resistant to chemicals and disinfectants. Walls shall be sealed to the base, ceiling, door frames,
cover plates, and all other openings and penetrations. Epoxy paint or panelized composite systems are standard. Wall construction and
materials must be selected to ensure compatibility with finish systems, and to provide a smooth, void-free substrate. NIH DRM Section
4.9.5.2
76. The integrity of all surfaces, penetrations, and seals on the containment perimeter shall be visually inspected. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
77. Interior partitions which are part of the secondary barrier shall extend to and be sealed to the underside of the structure. NIH DRM Section
4.9.4

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 16 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 78. Wall finishes shall be protected from impact and wear utilizing corner guards, crash rails, FRP panels or other methods in vulnerable areas.
NIH DRM Section 4.9.5.2
79. Ceilings should be constructed, sealed, and finished in the same general manner as walls. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3.c
80. Ceilings shall be monolithic, seamless construction. Ceiling systems shall be designed to resist damage from deflection caused by differential
air pressure surges that may occur during HVAC fan-failure testing. Ceiling material and support systems shall be designed to be moisture
and sag resistant. NIH DRM Section 2.6.2.4
81. Ceilings shall be durable and resistant to moisture, wash-downs and pressurization. Ceilings shall be monolithic, seal to the walls, and with
sealed access panel. Lights, diffusers, and other ceiling-mounted devices. Epoxy painted gypsum board or panelized composite systems are
standard. Gypsum board shall not be standard wall board, but must be specified and detailed to be appropriately moisture and sag resistant.
Acoustical tile celling systems are not acceptable. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5.3
82. Verify structural capability of wall and ceiling systems prior to determining leak test pressures. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.4.8.2
83. The interior surfaces of walls, floors, and ceilings are water resistant so that they can be easily cleaned. Penetrations in these surfaces are
sealed or capable of being sealed to facilitate decontaminating the area. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-b
84. Ceiling height to be coordinated with cabinet requirements to ensure proper airflow and containment within the cabinet. NIH DRM Section
4.6.1.11.A.8
85. All utility systems shall be configured to minimize the need for access panels within the containment barrier. NIH DRM Section 4.9.7
86. Access panel frames shall be sealed to the wall or ceiling, and fitted with a continuous, gastight door gasket. Panel design shall ensure
compression of the gasket around the entire panel door perimeter without discontinuity at the hinge or latch when in the latched position.
Access door assemblies shall be stainless steel or another non-coated, corrosion-resistant material. NIH DRM Section 4.9.7
87. The interior finishes of a BSL-3 shall form a durable, monolithic, impermeable enclosure. Mock-ups of all finishes shall be provided for review
and approval, and as a basis for acceptance of the final installation. The mock-ups shall be constructed in the same conditions, and using
the same materials and techniques as the final installation. The mock-ups shall include all typical conditions, including sealants, transitions
between materials, inside and outside corners. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5
88. BSL-3 wall and ceiling finishes, unless factory finished, shall have high performance reinforced multi-coat resinous paint finish (reinforced
epoxy paint or equivalent). Paint applicators shall be Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) Coating Application Specialist (CAS Level II)
Certified, and must be trained and approved by the paint manufacturer. All high performance resinous paint applications must be inspected
by an independent third party Coating Inspector Program (CIP) level 3 certified inspector. NIH DRM Section 4.9.5
89. Inspect and evaluate finishes. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.2
90. Laboratory furniture must be capable of supporting anticipated loads and uses. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.4
91. Spaces between benches, cabinets, and equipment must be accessible for cleaning. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.4
92. Fixed millwork, casework, and countertops shall either be sealed to walls and floors or positioned with sufficient spacing to facilitate cleaning
and minimize harborage of pests. NIH DRM Section 4.5.1.4
93. Bench tops must be impervious to water and resistant to heat, organic solvents acids, alkalis, and other chemicals. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.4.a
94. Bench tops shall be epoxy, stainless steel, or phenolic resin. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8.E
95. Chairs must be covered with a non‐porous material that can be easily cleaned and decontaminated with appropriate disinfectant. BMBL 5th
ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.4.b
96. Chairs and other laboratory furnishings shall be covered with a non-porous material that is easily cleaned and decontaminated with

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 17 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 appropriate disinfectant. BMBL Section IV.BiosafetyLevel3.D.4.b.
97. Shelving standards shall be open fronted or otherwise detailed to allow for full sanitation. Slotted standards with inaccessible concealed
areas are not allowed. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8.A
98. Cabinets shall be designed without inaccessible areas that cannot be easily sanitized or disinfected. Joints, holes, and anchors shall be
sealed. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8.B
99. Casework finishes shall be resistant to agents used for decontamination. Stainless steel, phenolic resin, or other corrosion-resistant materials
shall be used in damp or corrosive environments. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8.F
100. Movable tables, mobile base units, and cantilevered bench tops shall be used whenever possible. Where fixed casework components must
be used, they shall be set on monolithic bases to facilitate installation of integral cover flooring base. Void areas behind fixed case work
shall be sealed to walls. All items shall have smooth corners and edges and be free of open joints and voids. All fixed items shall be sealed
to the floor, wall, and adjacent items. Welded stainless steel is standard in BSL-3 laboratories where moisture or frequent cleaning is
required. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8
101. Spaces around doors should be capable of being sealed for space decontamination. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
102. Spaces around ventilation openings should be capable of being sealed for space decontamination BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety
Level 3.D.3
103. All windows in the laboratory must be sealed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.5
104. Window frames shall be fully welded and sealed. Frames shall be foam filled or otherwise sealed to prevent infiltration. When windows are
located in the barrier wall, removable glazing stops shall be located on the non-containment side of the barrier. Glazing shall be tempered
safety or laminated glass. NIH DRM Section 2.6.2.7
105. Seams, floors, walls, and ceilings should be sealed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
106. All penetrations into and through partitions, floors, and ceilings shall be sealed to enhance sanitation, facilitate gas and vapor
decontamination, and resist air infiltration. Piping, ductwork, electrical boxes, and other penetrating items shall be firmly anchored to resist
movement that could damage seals. Penetrations shall be visible for inspection and maintenance. NIH DRM Section 4.9.6
107. Visual Inspection: Continuous seal between ductwork and room exhaust grille. Verify during initial installation and maintain written/photo
documentation for records. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.4
108. Seams, floors, walls, and ceiling surfaces should be sealed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
109. Seams between walls, floors, and ceilings and between all dissimilar materials shall be fully sealed. Sealant at movement joints shall be
applied after installation of high-performance finishes to resist cracking. NIH DRM Section 4.9.6
110. Sealant shall be applied in a uniform, smooth, and continuous manner, resulting in a finish free of voids, pinholes, sharp edges, or excess
sealant. Sealant must be compatible with all material that it is in contact with, including other sealant. Sealant must have chemical resistance,
flexibility, durability, adherence, and other characteristics appropriate for its use. NIH DRM Section 4.9.6

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 18 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

The laboratory must be designed for N/A Equipment should be accessible

ease of maintenance, so that access to for maintenance, repairs and
critical mechanical equipment is outside annual verification.
containment. 1, 2 • Shutoff valves should be in
non-containment spaces.
• Mechanical HVAC spaces
should be on full size
interstitial space/ floor.

A BSL-3 environment must have a The air change rate will be determined by N/A
minimum of 6 air changes per hour.3, 4 the largest of the following; internal heat
gain (cooling load), exhausted equipment
(fume hood, glove-box, etc.), or minimum
according to this standard.

A BSL‐3 environment must have Having supply/exhaust interlock will Consider redundancy by providing
supply/exhaust fan interlock. 5, 6, 7, 8 prevent/ minimize airflow reversal in case both Software and Hardware
of exhaust fan(s) failure and Interlocks
prevent/minimize laboratory from going too
deep negative during supply fan(s) failure.

Physical or soft interlock is acceptable.

Interlock monitored by BMS to ensure
maintenance of proper air balance.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 19 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Gas tight damper and/or low leakage Gas tight isolation dampers or low leakage On supply and exhaust systems
airflow control valves are required to airflow control valves allow the facility or (see DRM reference).
facilitate isolation of individual laboratory room to become isolated from
laboratory rooms/space based on agent the rest of the HVAC system without
summary statement, risk assessment, affecting other areas. This feature can be
or applicable local, state or federal used when performing area
regulations. 9, 10 decontamination of the room or facility or
when removing a large piece of equipment.

The A/E shall utilize the latest edition of Adherence to the latest version of energy N/A
the following energy codes and codes will ensure compliance with local,
standards to design the exterior state and federal requirements.
envelope and select HVAC systems, • Include local and UC standards
domestic water heating, electrical
distribution and illuminating systems ‐
ASHRAE Standard 90.1, Energy Policy
Act 2005, and International Energy
Conservation Code. 11

Provide a ducted dedicated, single pass BSL-3 exhaust ductwork shall not be Dedicated ventilation system
exhaust ventilation system. The exhaust shared with non-BSL-3 spaces. (supply and exhaust) will allow a
fan system shall be redundant (N+1 faster response of the
minimum) and provide directional management system by being
airflow, from least hazardous area to able to isolate BSL-3 facility
most potentially hazardous. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 without affecting the rest of the
• The laboratory exhaust air must not building.
re‐circulate to any other area of the
building. 30, 31, 32, 33

Under normal operations, system shall Maintaining directional airflow from low N/A
provide directional airflow and shall be hazard to high hazard will minimize cross-
exhausted to outside. 17, 18, 19, 20 contamination of spaces. Air shall not be
recirculated.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 20 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 100 CFM doorway infiltration. 100 CFM will maintain an average N/A
pressure difference of ~ -0.05 in.w.g.
Differential pressure range of -0.04 to -0.15
in.w.g. shall be maintained between each
pressure zone. In the event that multiple
containment zones exist within a laboratory
or laboratory suite, sequentially more
negative pressure differentials must be
established so that the more contaminated
spaces are maintained at a negative
pressure with respect to less contaminated
areas.
• Smoke test to verify directional airflow

A N+1 redundancy is required for High- The air-handling unit must provide enough A dedicated air handing system is
Containment laboratory rooms. capacity for future upgrades. Capacity of highly recommended. Consider
Capacity and size of the make‐up air the cooling system shall include the designs with multiple fans,
system serving containment program cooling demand plus an allowance isolation dampers and controls
devices/equipment shall correspond to for future expansion of internal heat gain maybe designed to satisfy the
100% of the programmed containment requirements as defined by the campus N+1 requirements.
devices/equipment plus future capacity personnel.
as defined by the campus personnel. Considerations should be made
21, 22 for design of the HVAC system
with regard to constant volume or
variable volume.

Provide 100% outdoor air supplied to Providing outside air will minimize cross- Provide dedicated supply (air
the BSL-3 laboratory that is then contamination between spaces. handling unit and ductwork).
exhausted directly. 23

Provide digital monitor or analog Pressure monitor must allow laboratory N/A
magnehelic gauge at each door leading personnel to verify that laboratory is under
to a new pressure zone. 24, 25, 26 negative pressure.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 21 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 • “Ball-In-tube” units are not Alarm shall report to appropriate personnel
acceptable and Facilities.

Provide audible and visual alarms to Local alarms shall notify laboratory Alarm should report to Facilities
notify personnel of air flow disruption. 27, personnel of issues with the facility. personnel and Building
28
Management System (BMS) after
the appropriate alarm delay set
point.

A BSL-3 environment shall have air Having a differential pressure of -0.05 N/A
pressure differential of -.05” in.w.g. at in.w.g. provides the containment of
each barrier door and laboratory.29 pathogens in the case of a release outside
the BSC

Exhaust air must be HEPA filtered. The HEPA filter sterilizes the air before it is N/A
Laboratory building exhaust air should discharged into the environment
be dispersed away from occupied areas • Consider other regulatory requirements
and from building air intake locations. when volatile chemicals and
34, 35, 43, 44, 45 radioactive materials will be used in B2
cabinets.

Exhaust air systems shall be arranged N+1 configuration provides redundancy in N/A
with single fans or multiple manifolded the system in case of a failure.
fans designed to achieve N+1
redundancy and maintain the exhaust
air system fully operational, at all times.
Each fan shall be designed to be
capable of being fully isolated while the
overall system remains fully
operational. 37, 42

Provide a dedicated exhaust system Class III BSC are commonly used for N/A
with double HEPA filters in series for a aerosol procedures involving biological
Class III BSC. 38 materials with hazardous chemicals or
radioactive materials.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 22 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Exhaust hoods on the "dirty" side of Connecting exhaust hood to BSL-3 N/A
double door autoclaves shall be exhaust system will minimize
connected to the BSL‐3 exhaust air contamination of non-containment areas in
system. 39 case of failure.

HEPA filter housings shall have gas‐ This allows for HEPA filter housing N/A
tight isolation dampers, decontamination before any repairs and/or
decontamination ports, and/or bag‐ maintenance is required.
in/bag‐out (with appropriate • Isolation dampers, decontamination
decontamination procedures) capability. ports and bag in-bag out should be
46, 47 located in areas that are easily
accessible with enough room for
maintenance/filter change-outs.
• HEPA filter housing shall be welded
stainless steel construction.
• Each HEPA filter shall be capable of in
situ decontamination and full face filter
scanning.

The HEPA filter housing shall allow for HEPA filters must be checked for leaks on N/A
leak testing of each filter and assembly. an annual basis.
48, 49, 50

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 23 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

HVAC References
1. Laboratory must be designed so that it can be easily cleaned and decontaminated. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV. Biosafety Level 3.D.3
2. The interior of walls, floors and ceilings are water resistant so that they can be easily cleaned. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-b
3 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have 6 air changes per hour minimum. N I H D R M Section 6.1.11.1.A
4 . Table 1. Airborne contamination removal and air change rates. CDC Infection Control. Environmental Infection Control Guidelines.
Part IV appendix
5 . A BSL-3 environment shall have: Supply/Exhaust fan interlock. NIH DRM Section 7.7.1.B
6 . Ensure that interlock between supply and exhaust is operational. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section II.6
7 . Verify Control Systems/Fail Safe Operation ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.9
8 . The air handling system shall be designed such that under failure conditions, the airflow will not be reversed and periodic verification.
NIH DNA Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-i
9 . Gas tight dampers to facilitate laboratory isolation may be required based on agent summary statement, risk assessment, or applicable
local, state, or federal regulations. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.14
1 0 . Bubble-tight isolation damper shall be provided between the room supply air terminal, the room supply air diffuser, and between the
room exhaust grille and room exhaust air terminal. NIH DMR Section 6.6.9.B
1 1 . The A/E shall utilize the latest edition of the following energy codes and standards to design the exterior envelope and select HVAC
systems, domestic water heating, electrical distribution and illuminating systems ‐ ASHRAE Standard 90.1, Energy Policy Act 2005, and
International Energy Conservation Code. NIH DRM Section 6.1.23.B
1 2 . A ducted air ventilation system is required. This system must provide sustained directional airflow by drawing air into the laboratory from
"clean" areas toward "potentially contaminated" areas. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9
1 3 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have single pass air directional airflow. NIH DRM Section 2.5.3.7.E, 6.6.7
1 4 . Ensure single pass airflow. Directional airflow must be established from clean areas into contaminated areas. In the event that multiple
containment zones exist within a laboratory or laboratory suite, sequentially more negative pressure differentials must be established so
that the more contaminated spaces are maintained at a negative pressure with respect to less contaminated areas. NIH BSL-3
Certification Section II.14
1 5 . The directional airflow shall be verified in normal and failure modes as well as equipment such as BSC's, fume hoods, filtration systems,
etc. connected to the ventilation system. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.4.1, 8.4.2
1 6 . A ducted exhaust air ventilation system is provided. The system creates directional airflow that draws air into the laboratory from
uncontaminated spaces surrounding the laboratory. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-i
1 7 . At BSL-3…, exhaust laboratory air must be directly exhausted to the outside since it is considered potentially contaminated. This
concept is referred to as a dedicated, single-pass exhaust system. BMBL 5th ed. Appendix A Section VI.Building Exhaust
1 8 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have a supply system independent and separate from the remainder of the building. NIH DRM Section
6.1.8.1
1 9 . BSL‐3 laboratory spaces shall be provided with dedicated supply air systems, which do not serve any other laboratory spaces outside
the containment laboratory. NIH DRM Section 6.6.2.A
2 0 . Minimal acceptable conditions for ventilation system performance in BSL‐3 facilities include: 1) during normal facility operations, the
maintenance of air movement from areas that are not contaminated by any biological hazards towards areas that may be progressively

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 24 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 more contaminated inside the laboratory. ANSI Z9.14 Section 5.2
2 1 . Air‐handling units (AHU) shall be designed to provide N+1 reliability and maintain 100% capacity in the event of a lead component
failure. Multiple parallel air‐handling units shall be provided to operate simultaneously to meet full load conditions. Each AHU and its
related components shall be capable of total isolation by the use of isolation dampers located upstream and downstream of each air‐
handling unit. NIH DRM Section 6.1.8.1.B, 6.6.9.A
2 2 . Capacity and size of the make‐up air system to serve containment devices/equipment shall correspond to 120% of the programmed
containment devices/equipment. Capacity of the cooling system shall include the program cooling demand plus an allowance for 20%
future expansion of internal heat gain requirements. NIH DRM Section 6.2.1
2 3 . Use of 100% outdoor air to provide all the room air to be exhausted through laboratory spaces and laboratory containment equipment;
(2) Size the exhaust air system to handle the simultaneous operation of all laboratory spaces and all laboratory containment equipment,
and (3) Directing airflow from low hazard areas to high hazard areas at all times. Air supplied to the corridor and adjacent clean spaces
shall be exhausted through the laboratory to achieve effective negative pressurization. N I H D RM Section 6.1.13.1.A
2 4 . Laboratory personnel must be able to verify directional airflow. A visual monitoring device, which confirms directional airflow, must be
provided at the laboratory entry. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9.a
2 5 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have pressure differential monitors. NIH DRM Section 7.7.1.B, 7.7.2.D
2 6 . Visual Inspection: A means for users to verify airflow direction should be present. Monitor should be provided, both at the outer entry of
the BSL‐3 suite and at interior doors, based on the risk assessment. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.3
2 7 . Audible alarms should be considered to notify personnel of airflow disruption. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9.a
2 8 . The BAS shall provide differential pressure monitors on classified spaces to indicate the room differential pressure and shall alarm when
the pressure goes beyond adjustable thresholds and time durations. NIH DRM Section 13.9.4
2 9 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have air pressure differential of ‐0.05" w.g. at each barrier door and laboratory. NIH DRM Section 6.1.15.C
3 0 . The laboratory exhaust air must not re‐ circulate to any other area of the building. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9.b
3 1 . Laboratory and animal facility air shall not be recirculated to another space or facility to prevent migration of chemical fumes or airborne
pathogens and prevent cross-contamination between spaces. NIH DRM Section 6.1.8
3 2 . Visual inspection of the exhaust air systems including exhaust stack location and discharge velocities, code distance from exhaust stack
and air intakes operable windows, etc., the exhaust stack height, the presence and operation of the interlock between the supply and
exhaust, and the exhaust air filtration. ANSI Z9.14 S e c t i o n 8.3.4
3 3 . The exhaust air is not recirculated to any other area of the building, is discharged outside, and is dispersed away from the occupied
areas and air intakes. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-i
3 4 . The laboratory building exhaust air should be dispersed away from occupied areas and from building air intake locations or the exhaust
air must be HEPA filtered. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9.c
3 5 . Construction documents shall include the design of exhaust stack height and discharge air velocity characteristics to overcome the
building cavity boundary and avoid re‐entrainment of exhaust. Stacks shall be shown as part of the architectural design and the design
rationale shall be described in the early design reports. In general, exhaust stacks shall be designed to meet the following requirements ‐
discharge shall be a minimum of 3 m (10 ft.) above the roofline and any roof element within a horizontal distance of a 4 m (13 ft.) radius,
upward velocity shall be a minimum of 15 m/s (3,000 fpm) at the point of discharge. Reentry calculations may dictate higher discharge
velocities, safety concerns shall always take precedence over aesthetics, and manifolds for multiple exhaust fans shall have separate
exhaust stacks for each fan to avoid having positive pressure ductwork on the discharge side of fans not operating. NIH DRM Section
6.2.3.C

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 25 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 3 6 . Ensure that discharge of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) devices is removed from air intakes to prevent re‐entrainment. NIH BSL-3
Certification Section II.40
3 7 . Exhaust air systems shall be arranged with multiple manifolded fans designed to achieve N+1 redundancy and maintain the exhaust air
system fully operational, at all times. Each manifolded fan shall be designed to be fully isolated while the overall system remains fully
operational. In the case of single fan systems, in addition to the main fan, a standby fan shall be provided. The A/E shall review
redundancy requirements for each particular system with the program user and the NIH/DOHS. NIH DRM Section 6.1.22.2
3 8 . Exhaust air from a Type B BSC shall be a dedicated system with double HEPA filters in series. NIH DRM Section 7.5.15.A
3 9 . Exhaust hoods on the "dirty" side of pass through autoclaves are connected to the BSL‐3 exhaust air system. NIH DRM Section 4.9.10
4 0 . At BSL-3…, exhaust laboratory air must be directly exhausted to the outside since it is considered potentially contaminated. This
concept is referred to as a dedicated, single-pass exhaust system. BMBL 5th ed. Appendix A Section VI.Building Exhaust
4 1 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have an exhaust system independent and separate from the remainder of the building. NIH DRM Section
6.6.7.A
4 2 . A BSL‐3 environment shall have: Redundant exhaust fans (N+1). NIH DRM Section 6.6.1.D
4 3 . The laboratory building exhaust air should be dispersed away from occupied areas and from building air intake locations or the exhaust
air must be HEPA filtered. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9.c
4 4 . Exhaust air HEPA filtration is recommended to eliminate the possibility of re-entrainment of BSL-3 exhaust air into the intake air and to
filter highly infectious agents and pathogens that may cause risk to the environment. NIH DRM Section 6.6.8.B
4 5 . The exhaust air is not recirculated to any other area of the building, is discharged outside, and is dispersed away from the occupied
areas and air intakes. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-i
4 6 . HEPA filter housings should have gas‐tight isolation dampers, decontamination ports, and/or bag‐in/bag‐out (with appropriate
decontamination procedures) capability. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9
4 7 . HEPA filter housing shall be welded stainless steel construction. Each HEPA filter shall be capable of in situ decontamination and full
face scanning. NIH DRM Section 6.6.8.D
4 8 . The HEPA filter housing should allow for leak testing of each filter and assembly. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.9
4 9 . The housing shall be accessible and space provided for filter change-outs. NIH DRM Section 6.6.8.D
5 0 . HEPA filter installations shall be visually inspected. HEPA filtration shall be tested at least annually. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.4
5 1 . Final HEPA filtration of the laboratory exhaust air may be required by the agent summary statement, risk assessment, or applicable local
state or federal regulations. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.14
Exhaust air HEPA filtration is recommended and each particular system/application shall be reviewed with the user and EHS. NIH DRM
Section 6.6.8.B

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 26 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Electrical
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

All electrical penetrations shall be Sealed penetrations are required for N/A
sealed airtight internally at the decontamination and directional airflow
containment boundary. 1 , 2, 3, 4 • J box is sealed and in wet areas
• Refer to NIH DRM for areas to be consider using an outlet cover
sealed and sealant type.

Electrical faceplates and devices shall BSL-3 laboratories must be able to be Utilize stainless steel cover plates
be able to withstand routine area decontaminated without affecting for switches and receptacles in
decontamination, as well as, after spills, the electrical components rooms that will utilize vaporized
splashes, or other potential paraformaldehyde or chlorine
contamination. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 dioxide gaseous decontamination
protocols.
• Use of foam and rubber shall be
• Based on decontamination
minimized.
methods, consider providing
• Wall‐mounted electrical receptacles
electric relays for control of
and switches and ceiling‐mounted
power outlets for disinfecting
receptacles shall be hinged, self‐
agent generation equipment,
closing, weatherproof and stainless
mixing equipment, and
steel SS‐316 with rounded edge
neutralizing agent generation
cover plates with neoprene closed‐
equipment (if required by
cell gasket material for all wall
disinfecting agent), to be
devices.
controlled from outside the
room(s). Provide power to de‐
humidification equipment if
required by disinfection agent
protocol.

Conduits for all systems - Conduit Threaded rigid conduit with sealed N/A
applications in BSL-3 facilities are as penetrations at containment barrier
follows: 10, 11 provides a long term and durable
• Conduit type: use rigid galvanized pathway that meets the airtight
steel (RGS) conduit with threaded

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 27 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 fittings in all BSL-3 areas containment requirement.
• Seal-off: provide seal-off fittings
when conduits exit defined BSL-3
perimeter
• SMR: use of surface metal raceway
systems (SMRs) is not allowed in
BSL-3 areas

BSL-3 facilities - All components of the BSL-3 laboratories shall have Emergency Generator - Provide a
HVAC system (supply and exhaust), emergency power for critical local generator dedicated to the
alarms, emergency lighting and components. facility to provide
laboratory outlets for essential emergency/standby power.
equipment (Biological Safety Cabinets, Consider providing 100%
freezers, autoclave, etc.) shall be on a generator backup.
backup power system. 12, 13, 14, 15
• All BSL-3 equipment and controls
on backup power shall be supplied
backup power through a closed
transition transfer switch. BAS
controllers and BSCs shall have
uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
with a run time of at least 120
seconds
• UPS shall be installed such that it is
easy to monitor and replace on a
regular basis. Backup power to the
laboratory and associated systems
shall be on dedicated circuits from
the generator.
• All HVAC equipment must be
capable of auto-restart after a power
failure.

Provide emergency power for the Emergency Power shall connect the As determined per program basis,
following essential equipment: 16, 17 following loads to the standby electrical recommend connecting the
1. HVAC systems: following loads to the standby

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 28 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 2. Alarms • Heating and cooling units provided electrical system:
3. Emergency lighting for critical support function • Sterilizers
4. BSCs • Receptacles serving selected • Cage wash equipment for
5. Freezers equipment identified as critical by remote locations
6. Incubators the program • Other loads as required by the
• During the design phase, review • General lighting in laboratories program based on risk
equipment with facility users to • Critical control and containment assessment
determine emergency power equipment compressed air system
backup needs.

The emergency power system shall be Emergency electrical service size shall N/A
designed to meet applicable codes and be adequate to meet the current and
standards. 18, 19, 20 future emergency electrical demand,
and applicable codes and standards

Life safety loads shall be wired Life Safety Loads may include all or N/A
separately from normal powered, legally some of the following:
required and optional standby loads. 21 • Emergency egress lighting
• Egress signage
• Communications systems (including
PA systems
• Fire alarm and mass notification
systems
• Self-contained battery-powered
lighting at generator set location
• Fire-suppression systems (fire
pumps, jockey pumps,
compressors, valves, etc.)

Provide UPS power to all alarms and A central UPS system or a number of N/A
electronic key access systems. During local UPSs may be required to backup
the design phase, review with facility all building wide low voltage systems
user’s additional equipment that may that are essential for containment
require UPS power backup. 22, 23, 24 operation, safe shutdown of the facility
• Biological Safety Cabinets, and for critical BSL-3 specific loads.
refrigerators and freezers should be

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 29 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 on individual circuits

J boxes shall be cast and/or sealed Provide cast boxes with external Consider double gang J boxes
airtight. 25, 26, 27 mounting provisions, external hub, and • Type and Depth: All boxes
gasketed device cover plates should be double gang type;
• Sealing: Provide a 25 mm (1 in.) the box depth should be at
barrier of silicone caulk around the least the next larger than
wire within a device box hub. minimum size required per
Provide a continuous bead of caulk code.
between the device box and the
adjacent surface. Provide a
continuous bead of caulk around
the device cover plate and the
adjacent surface.

Panel boards must be located outside Electrical equipment that requires N/A
the contained space. Circuit breakers service shall not be installed within a
must be labeled. 28 containment area.

Provide GFCI outlets at sinks for N/A N/A

electrically operated pre‐mixing valves.

Power Wiring Insulation shall be Verify that manufacturers wiring N/A

compatible with sealing compound jacketing is chemically compatible with
(sealing compound non‐deleterious to sealing compounds.
insulation), using THW, THWN,
THHN/THWN, or XHHW, with minimum
size #12 wire, except #10 wire for
special purpose receptacles. The A/E
shall coordinate requirements for
security wiring, on a per project basis
with Facilities and EH&S. 29, 30, 31

The electrical equipment shall mirror the The separate distribution panels shall N/A
N+1 configuration of the critical be powered from separate transfer

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 30 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 mechanical systems. Where redundant switches. The A/E shall evaluate and
mechanical system components are minimize single points of failure for all
provided, the electrical system shall be projects.
designed to limit the impact of the loss
of a single electrical component. (e.g. if
2 fans are provided in a N+1
configuration, each fan should be
provided from a separate distribution
panels so that the N units of the
equipment can continue to operate
during failure of any single electrical
system component.)33

Confirm electrical infrastructure Redundant electrical services eliminate N/A

minimum requirements for reliability and single points of failure and correspond
redundancy with approving authorities. to critical mechanical system
34
redundancies. Coordinate with campus
and utility provider for service
infrastructure for high reliability. Review
with grant officers, principal
investigators, facility operations and
authorities having jurisdiction to confirm
requirements.
• Downstream distribution for BSL‐3
projects from switchgear for critical
areas, such as mechanical support
rooms with redundant motors in
each set, shall consist of pairs of
distribution switchboards/ panel
boards, each fed from a separate
side of the switchgear, to supply
approximately half of each set of
motors. This would include
supplying packaged units with
multiple motors with separate

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 31 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 feeders for each motor, where
possible.

Wall penetrations shall be prepared and Submission and Mock-up - N/A

sleeved. Wall penetrations through fire Penetrations into the containment
rated walls shall be avoided. Where barrier (including mounting of electrical
necessary, penetrations shall be in boxes) shall be detailed in the
accordance with NFPA and NIH construction documents and require
regulations. All fire‐rated features of the mock-ups to be constructed and tested
contract design must be approved by prior to installation. Penetration details
Fire Marshal. 35 for equipment shall be coordinated with
the equipment manufacturer.

Provide gasketed, sealed, weather tight N/A N/A

surface mounted light fixtures. 36

The BSL‐3 lighting systems shall be N/A Consider installation of sealed

designed to ensure biohazards are fixtures that can be accessed from
contained within the area. Lighting the interstitial/mechanical space
fixtures shall be easily opened to permit above the lab for changing light
full decontamination. 37, 38 bulbs.

Provide emergency lighting in each Emergency lighting installation shall N/A

room of the BSL‐3 suite. 39 comply with the following requirements:
• Connect at least 50% of lighting
fixtures in the laboratories to the
emergency power source.
• Provide at least one lighting fixture
per room in laboratory areas with
self-testing emergency battery
ballast. Connect the lighting fixtures
with emergency ballasts to
unswitched local emergency
generator circuits.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 32 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Lighting levels must be sufficient for N/A N/A
tasks.

Conventional light switching (voltage Occupancy sensors may be used in N/A

toggle) is acceptable. 40 laboratory support and other areas, but
not in containment spaces where BSCs
are to be located. In addition,
specialized lighting controls (such as
dimming systems and DC lighting
controls) shall be provided per specific
program requirements.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 33 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Electrical References
1. The laboratory must be designed so that it can be easily cleaned and decontaminated. Carpets and rugs are not permitted. Seams, floors,
walls, and ceiling surfaces should be sealed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D
2. All penetrations shall be durable, sealed, and tested to meet room tightness criteria for BSL-3 laboratories. NIH DRM Section 10.8.2.A.2
3. Inspect and Evaluate – Finishes, penetrations & caulking integrity for architectural elements such as doors, around the ceilings, lighting
fixtures, electrical devices, etc. within containment to meet requirements for: Sealed seams and penetrations. NIH BSL-3 Certification
Section I.2
4. Visual inspection – The integrity of all surfaces, penetrations, and seals on the containment perimeter shall be visually inspected. ANSI
Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
5. Decontaminate work surfaces after completion of work and after any spill or splash of potentially infectious material with appropriate
disinfectant. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.A.7
6. All surface finishes shall be selected to be compatible with the anticipated agents and methods used for cleaning, disinfection, or sterilization
and protocols used by program without damage or degradation, including discoloration. NIH DRM Section 4.4.5
7. Cover plates for building interior receptacles, switches, and boxes shall be stainless steel, brushed aluminum, or hospital-grade impact
resistant nylon. Cover plates for cast boxes shall be gasketed and weatherproof. NIH DRM Section 10.5.3.8
8. Provide weatherproof covers for receptacles and switches where they are exposed to water. Utilize stainless steel cover plates for switches
and receptacles in rooms that will utilize vaporized paraformaldehyde or chlorine dioxide gaseous decontamination protocols. NIH DRM
Section 10.5.5.H.4
9. Properly sealed laboratory surfaces (walls, floors, and ceilings) are essential to maintain controlled directional airflow and ventilation system
performance. Room leakage or tightness is also critical when gaseous fumigants are used for decontamination. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
10. Conduits for all systems: Conduit applications in BSL-3 facilities are as follows: 1) Conduit Type: Use Rigid Galvanized Steel (RGS) conduit
with threaded fittings in all BSL-3 areas. 2)Seal-off: Provide seal-off fittings when conduits exit defined BSL-3 perimeter. SMR: Use of surface
metal raceway systems (SMRs) is not allowed in BSL-3 areas. NIH DRM Section 10.8.3.A
11. Inspect and Evaluate – Finishes, penetrations & caulking integrity for architectural elements such as doors, around the ceilings, lighting
fixtures, electrical devices, etc. within containment to meet requirements for: Surface impermeability to liquids; Resistance of surfaces to
chemical (organic solvents, acids, alkalis), disinfectants and moderate heat; Gas tightness for decontamination; Pest management
requirements. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.2
12. Develop HVAC system and electrical systems failure tests consistent with laboratory design parameters. Perform tests and record data. To
verify correct operations these tests should include at a minimum: 1) Normal operations to emergency power. 2) Emergency power to normal
operations NIH BSL-3 Certification Section II.17
13. Pneumatic control air system and control power system shall be assessed and verified to be in good operating condition by visual inspection
so as to maintain any required critical control or secondary containment features during normal operation and in the event of loss of power,
failure of a generator, or failure of primary compressors and equipment. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.6
14. Visual inspection of control power system should include control power for all heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) controls
should be served by standby power system. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.6
15. HVAC systems shall be tested for directional airflow during system failures. During system failures, momentary changes in airflow patterns
can be acceptable based on the facility risk assessment. Failure of the normal/preferred source power supporting supply and exhaust fan

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 34 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 components and transition to the emergency or alternate source. The ability to transition from normal to the backup system should be
verified. Return from power outage or emergency or alternate power source to normal or preferred power source should be verified. ANSI
Z9.14 Section 8.4.2
16. Standby Power Requirements: In addition to the loads listed in Section 10.3, Emergency Power, connect the following loads to the standby
electrical systems: 1) Heating and cooling units provided for critical support function. 2) Receptacles serving selected equipment identified
as critical by the program. 3) General lighting in laboratories. 4) Critical control and containment equipment compressed air systems. NIH
DRM Section 10.8.1.B
17. As determined per program basis, recommend connecting the following loads to the standby electrical system: 1) Freezers/refrigerators, 2)
Sterilizers, 3) Cage wash equipment for remote locations, where there are no other options available to accommodate an extended outage,
4) Other loads as required by the program based on the risk assessment. NIH DRM Section 10.8.1.B
18. The emergency distribution panel and all emergency gear up to the load end of the automatic transfer switches shall be located in a separate
dedicated electrical room away from the normal power electrical room. NIH DRM Section 10.3.3
19. Wiring for the emergency power shall be separate from the normal power. NIH DRM Section 10.3.4.A
20. This is to ensure that emergency electrical service will meet current and future demand of the facility. NIH DRM Section 10.3.1
21. Life Safety Loads may include all or some of the following: 1) Emergency egress lighting, 2) Egress signage, 3) Communications systems
(including PA systems), 4) Fire alarm and mass notification systems, 5) Self-contained battery-powered lighting at generator set location, 6)
Fire-suppression systems (fire pumps, jockey pumps, compressors, valves, etc.) NIH DRM Section 10.3.1.B
22. A central UPS system or a number of local UPSs may be required to backup all building wide low voltage systems that are essential for
containment operation, safe shutdown of the facility and for critical BSL-3 specific loads. Central UPS shall be of the double-conversion
online type; wet cell type batteries are recommended. NIH DRM Section 10.8.1.C
23. Develop HVAC system and electrical systems failure tests consistent with laboratory design parameters. Perform tests and record data. To
verify correct operations these tests should include at a minimum: 1) If a UPS is installed, verify operation of relays, 2) Provide UPS for BAS,
3) Assess if UPS is operational. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section II.17
24. Containment systems should respond in such ways as to avoid operating conditions that present risks to workers and the environment.
Electrical systems including backup generators for normal power outages provide effective strategies to maintain containment including
minimization of flow reversals. Emergency generators can normally respond within 10-15 seconds to restore power, whereas UPS systems
(where installed) provide continuity of power between transitions of normal to emergency power systems. Based on the risk assessment for
the facility, each supporting system should have a documented sequence of operation/strategy for power failure and restoration. ANSI Z9.14
Section 8.4.6
25. Boxes for All Systems: General requirements of device boxes are as follows: 1) Type and Depth: All boxes shall be double gang type; the
box depth shall be at least the next larger than minimum size required per code. 2) Cast Boxes: Provide cast boxes with external mounting
provisions, external hub, and gasketed device cover plates. 3) Sealing: Provide a 25 mm (1 in.) barrier of silicone caulk around the wire
within a device box hub. Provide a continuous bead of caulk between the device box and the adjacent surface. Provide a continuous bead
of caulk around the device cover plate and the adjacent surface. NIH DRM Section 10.8.3.D
26. Inspect and Evaluate – Finishes, penetrations & caulking integrity for architectural elements such as doors, around the ceilings, lighting
fixtures, electrical devices, etc. within containment to meet requirements for: Sealed seams and penetrations; Surface impermeability to
liquids; Resistance of surfaces to chemical (organic solvents, acids, alkalis), disinfectants and moderate heat; Gas tightness for
decontamination; Pest management requirements. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.2

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 35 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 27. Properly sealed laboratory surfaces (walls, floors, and ceilings) are essential to maintain controlled directional airflow and ventilation system
performance. Room leakage or tightness is also critical when gaseous fumigants are used for decontamination. Examples of elements to
inspect include: Piping and electrical wall or ceiling penetrations including fire sprinklers; Seals around light fixtures, receptacles, diffusers,
and grilles; Sealing of electrical and communication/data wires within conduit; Components mounted to walls and ceilings. ANSI Z9.14
Section 8.3.2
28. Electrical Installation in Containment Areas: Avoid installing electrical equipment which requires service within a containment area. NIH DRM
Section 10.8.2.A
29. The A/E shall coordinate requirements for security wiring, on a per project basis with the Project Officer and Division of Physical Security
Management (DPSM). NIH DRM Section 10.8.3.C
30. Inspect and Evaluate – Finishes, penetrations & caulking integrity for architectural elements such as doors, around the ceilings, lighting
fixtures, electrical devices, etc. within containment to meet requirements for: Sealed seams and penetrations. NIH BSL-3 Certification
Section I.2
31. Properly sealed laboratory surfaces (walls, floors, and ceilings) are essential to maintain controlled directional airflow and ventilation system
performance. Room leakage or tightness is also critical when gaseous fumigants are used for decontamination. Examples of elements to
inspect include: Piping and electrical wall or ceiling penetrations including fire sprinklers; Seals around light fixtures, receptacles, diffusers,
and grilles; Sealing of electrical and communication/data wires within conduit; Components mounted to walls and ceilings. ANSI Z9.14
Section 8.3.2
32. RGS conduit with threaded fittings shall be used in all BSL‐3 areas. NIH DRM Section 10.8.3.A.1
33. Facilities shall have a minimum of two dedicated utility services, physically separated in different duct-banks and different manholes. These
dedicated services shall be fed by different primary substations or by one double-ended utility substation, which is fed by two dedicated utility
service lines. Each required electric service to the facility shall be sized to handle 100% of the design load (i.e., N + 1 redundancy). NIH DRM
Section 10.8.1.A
34. Evaluate and minimize single points of failure for all systems including power supplies, electrical distribution, grounding, equipment, and
controls for all projects. Downstream electrical distribution from switchgear to critical areas, such as mechanical support rooms with
redundant motors in each set, shall comprise pairs of distribution switchboards/panel boards, each fed from a separate side of the
switchgear, to supply approximately half of each set of motors. Where possible, provide separate feeders to packaged units with multiple
motors, i.e., a separate feeder for each motor. NIH DRM Section 10.8.1.A.6, 10.8.1.A.7
35. Electrical Installation in Containment Areas: Avoid installing electrical equipment which requires service within a containment area. Electrical
systems and equipment not serving the BSL-3 area shall not be located within the containment area. Containment Barrier Penetrations:
Penetrations through the containment barriers shall comply with the following requirements: 1) Penetrations through the containment barriers
shall be gas-tight, non-porous, smooth and cleanable; and readily visible for routine inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Penetrating
components shall be sufficiently rigid in construction and adequately braced to structure to maintain the long-term integrity of the penetration.
The result shall be free of sharp edges or similar hazards. 2) All penetrations shall be durable, sealed, and tested to meet the room tightness
criteria for BSL-3 laboratories. Submission and Mock-up: Penetrations into the containment barrier (including mounting of electrical boxes)
shall be detailed in the construction documents and shall require mock-ups to be constructed and tested prior to installation. Penetration
details for equipment shall be coordinated with the equipment manufacturer. NIH DRM Section 10.8.2.A, 10.8.2.B
36. Lighting fixture installation shall comply with the following requirements: 1) Fixtures shall be UL listed with a minimum IP65 rating, 2) Lighting
fixtures shall allow full decontamination with ease of effort, and permit easy re-lamping and access to ballasts. 3) Lighting fixtures shall be

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 36 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 provided with stainless steel housings, glass or heavy duty acrylic prismatic lens, and stainless steel door with tool-less fasteners or captive,
flush, stainless steel screws. 4) Use surface mounted, fully sealed, enclosed, and gasketed fluorescent or LED fixtures. Seal surface
mounted fixtures with a continuous bead of sealant around its perimeter to seal housing to ceiling. Lighting fixture must have a sealed
conduit entrance to housing. Lighting fixtures may be pendant mounted only in an open ceiling. Pendant-mounted lighting fixtures shall be
fully sealed and gasketed with same features as those of surface mounted fixtures including both a sealed conduit entrance to housing and
a sealed conduit entrance a ceiling canopy. 5) Install fixtures in continuous rows and aligned with edge of laboratory bench in laboratories
and laboratory support areas. Install lighting fixtures in a symmetrical pattern. Fixtures mounted in continuous rows should have a minimum
of 152 mm (6 in.) between fixtures to allow for disinfection. 6) In specific imaging modalities, such as MRI, incandescent or LED fixtures and
conduit shall be made of non-ferrous materials. Utilize EMI filters and DC dimming methods that are compatible with imaging equipment. All
special requirements shall be coordinated with the manufacturer of equipment in each modality. NIH DRM Section 10.8.4.A, 10.8.4.B
37. The BSL‐3 lighting systems shall be designed to ensure biohazards are contained within the area. Lighting fixtures shall be easily opened to
permit full decontamination. NIH DRM Section 10.8.4.A
38. BSL‐3 laboratory lighting fixtures and systems shall be designed with the containment barrier at the outlet box. NIH DRM Section 10.8.4
39. Emergency lighting installation shall comply with the following requirements: 1) Connect at least 50% of lighting fixtures in the laboratories
to the emergency power source. 2) Provide at least one lighting fixture per room in laboratory areas with self-testing emergency battery
ballast. Connect the lighting fixtures with emergency ballasts to unswitched local emergency generator circuits. NIH DRM Section 10.8.4.C
40. Laboratories shall utilize line voltage toggle switches. Occupancy sensors may be used in laboratory support and other areas. In addition,
specialized lighting controls (such as dimming systems and DC lighting controls) shall be provided per specific program requirements. If
occupancy sensors are used, specify infrared sensors with sealed enclosures. NIH DRM Section 10.8.4.D

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 37 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Plumbing
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide labeled shut-off valves to utilities To maintain the integrity of the Access to shut-off valves should
servicing the BSL-3 area(s) and locate containment envelope there should be no be restricted to trained individuals
them outside the containment barrier. 1, 2 access panels in the BSL‐3 laboratory. whenever possible.
Laboratory Mechanical, Electrical, • Labels should be
Plumbing (MEP) items that may need understandable to trained
maintenance shall be outside the individuals, but not
containment zone. compromise security.

Cylinder gases shall be piped from N/A Provide a locked closet for
adjacent rooms outside the BSL‐3 suite, 3 cylinder gases.

Provide back-flow prevention devices at Backflow device shall be Reduced N/A

each water service. 4, 5 Pressure Principle type for highest risk
• Provide back‐flow prevention devices level noted in the California Plumbing
at each water faucet Code Table 603.2.

Minimize surface mounted utilities. 6 Exposed piping shall be chemically N/A

compatible, non-porous, smooth, with
sanitary surfaces, and shall utilize
sanitary type piping clamps and supports.
Hangers/clamps and all associated
attachments shall be corrosion resistant
(typically stainless steel with plastic
grommets), free of sharps.

Do not provide compressed air to the The use of compressed air increases the N/A
BSL‐3 suite. 8, 9 risk of aerosolizing microorganisms.
Inhalation of infectious aerosols is the
primary route of laboratory acquired
infections.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 38 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 All piping into the BSL‐3 shall be secured N/A N/A
to prevent movement that may break the
barrier and the outside. 10

Water Distribution
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

The water distribution system shall be Pipe mains shall be designed to achieve N/A
designed to provide the required flow and the maximum calculated flow rate and to
pressure for the most hydraulically provide a 20% allowance for future
demanding fixture/equipment. System expansion.
must comply with local regulations and
industry standards. 11, 12, 13

Piping systems shall be properly N/A N/A

insulated. 14, 15

Comply with all local plumbing codes. 16 N/A N/A

If an Effluent Decontamination System The requirement for EDS in the N/A

(EDS) is provided, plumbing must be laboratory will be based on a risk
installed within the containment zone. assessment

Vacuum Line
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide easily replaceable HEPA filters N/A Installed central vacuum systems
where vacuum lines connect to BSCs. 17, should be dedicated to the BSL-3
18, 19, 20, 21, 22
laboratory, should not serve other
• HEPA filters on the vacuum lines areas, and should be located in
must be easily replaceable and close proximity to the
appropriately decontaminated prior to containment space. Central

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 39 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 disposal. vacuum pumps should be located
in a negatively pressurized room
(negative to adjacent spaces).

Sinks
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide wall mounted, hands‐free type N/A N/A

304 stainless steel (16 gauge) hand wash
sink with electrically operated hot/cold
premixing valves near main entrance/exit
to each room in a laboratory suite. Seal all
openings in sink. Sink to have coved
backsplash. 23, 24, 25, 26, 27
• Provide hands‐free paper towel
dispenser and soap dispenser at sink
in anteroom

Provide hands‐free hand wash sink with Provide additional sinks as required by N/A
electrically operated valves at each zone risk assessment.
within the BSL‐3 laboratory. 28, 29 • Risk assessment of agents and
laboratory procedures may
recommend additional sinks in an
effort to minimize exposures.

Faucets must be designed such that the N/A Faucets within containment
splash is minimized during handwashing should have atmospheric vacuum
and other procedures. 30 breaker and laminar flow, non-
aerating, non-splash outlet.

Flow rates shall be at least 1.8 gal/min. 31 Laboratory sinks are not regulated by Suggest that Calgreen kitchen
CalGreen (California code) or LEED. UC sink requirement be adopted:
Sustainability policy calls for water use 1.8 GPM normal maximum with
reduction in facilities. Adopting this intermittent maximum of 2.2

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 40 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 standard would be consistent with UC GPM.
goals.

Where stainless steel sinks are used, N/A N/A

surface undercoating and sound‐
deadening pads shall be omitted. 32

Shower
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Shower out requirements are based on A shower out requirement will be based When not required, consideration
risk assessment. 33, 34, 35, 36, 37 on risk assessment. If required, pass‐ should be given to the future
• Hand‐held showers shall not be through design shower should be addition of showers with regards
utilized except where specifically considered to allow traffic in one direction to laboratory design layout and
required for barrier‐free compliance only. Dirty clothing/PPE shall not plumbing demands.
and shall include a vacuum breaker. contaminate the clean area.
• Hand held fixtures must have a
vacuum breaker and a mount.
• Consider EDS for shower out if
required by risk assessment.

Fixtures requiring potable supply direct Backflow device shall be Reduced N/A
from the domestic potable water system Pressure Principle type for highest risk
(e.g., emergency eyewash, showers, and level noted in the California Plumbing
toilet room/shower fixtures located in Code Table 603.2
containment) shall be isolated from other
functions with an ASSE 1013 backflow
preventer. 38, 39

Drains
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

If laboratory intends to dispose of Requirement for EDS will be based on a N/A

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 41 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 contaminated liquid waste down the risk assessment and best practices
drains or disposal of such could possibly guidelines.
occur unintentionally, it must be • Laboratory personnel may eliminate
discharged to a dedicated waste system the need for EDS by decontaminating
prior to decontamination. 40 liquid waste with appropriate
disinfectant and contact time prior to
disposal.

Floor sinks provided for receiving the N/A Floor drains/floor sinks should be
condensate from the sterilizer chamber avoided in containment.
shall be on the clean side of the autoclave
bioseal. 41, 42

Drains pipes must be resistant to liquid N/A Metal pipes should be avoided in
decontaminant used in the facility. areas where decontaminated
liquid waste will be disposed.

Traps
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

6-inch P traps (minimum) must be N/A Deep traps provide safer

provided if significant changes in pressure protection by maintaining trap
could occur. seal when sudden changes in
• Traps shall be selected to exceed the space pressure occur.
exhaust fan static pressure to
maintain at least a 37-50 mm (1.5 -2
in.) seal depth under HVAC operating
and fan failure modes, as well as
extra depth as required for control of
pressure transients. 43

Traps shall be resistant to common N/A N/A

decontamination agents such as bleach.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 42 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Waste Pipe Cleanout
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide cleanouts in such a way as to N/A Threaded cleanout plugs should

maintain integrity of the containment be coated with threaded joint
barrier. 44 sealer for an airtight seal.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 43 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Plumbing References
1. Each pressurized piping penetration from outside the barrier into containment shall be provided with a shut-off valve located outside the
containment barrier serving only the BSL-3 area(s). Each equipment connection shall include dedicated isolation valve. Fire-sprinkler piping
need not be provided with a shut-off valve at each penetration; however, the sprinkler zone serving BSL-3 should be capable of independent
isolation. NIH DRM Section 8.6.1.D
2. All piping systems shall be identified using system-nomenclature-specific pipe labels. NIH DRM Section 8.1.3.4.B
3. Gas cylinders shall not be located inside containment spaces and shut-off valves should be provided for each penetration into containment
to permit independent isolation of each service. NIH DRM Section 8.6.6.B
4. Water supplies to BSL-3 spaces shall be isolated from other functions with an approved back-flow preventer (BFP) installed outside
containment prior to serving BSL-3 areas. NIH DRM Section 8.6.2.A
5. Each water service shall be provided with a service entrance backflow preventer sized for 100% demand load, ASSE 1013 type for domestic
water and ASSE 1015/1048 or ASSE 1 0 1 3 / 1047 type for fire service as appropriate. On facilities with single water service is utilized to
supply each system, backflow preventers on the individual service shall be arranged in parallel, sized to provide N+1 redundancy. NIH DRM
Section 8.3.2.E
6. Exposed piping shall be chemically compatible, non-porous, smooth, with sanitary surfaces, and shall utilize sanitary type piping clamps
and supports. Hangers/clamps and all associated attachments shall be corrosion resistant (typically stainless steel with plastic grommets),
free of sharps, and where applied in ABSL-3 areas exposed piping shall be in conformance with ASME BPE-2002 and properly sealed with
an approved sealant. NIH DRM Section 1.15.4.F
7. Each laboratory, animal, and other critical facilities shall be provided with two normally operating (online) water services, each sized for total
demand and appropriately connected to the campus loop. Water supplies and distribution systems shall be arranged to minimize potential
for single point failure or service loss. NIH DRM Section 8.3.2.A
8. The use of compressed air within a BSC must be carefully considered and controlled to prevent aerosol production and reduce the potential
for vessel pressurization. BMBL 5th ed. Appendix A
9. Pressurized gas systems shall not be connected to primary containment devices, including BSCs... Only where pressurized gas services
are necessary for required equipment operation or procedures in primary containment equipment (e.g., aerosol inhalation chambers) may
such services be provided… the service line shall have backflow preventer check valve arrangement at the point of use. NIH DRM Section
8.6.6.C
10. Each pressurized piping penetration from outside into containment shall be provided with a shutoff valve. Each equipment connection shall
include isolation valves. NIH DRM Section 8.6.1.D
11. A separate and distinct central laboratory/non-potable water subsystem shall be provided and distributed throughout the building, sourced
and isolated from the domestic water system with parallel ASSE 1013 backflow preventers, which have been sized and arranged to N+1
redundancy. NIH DRM Section 8.3.4.B
12. The water distribution system shall be designed to provide the required flow and pressure for the most hydraulically demanding
fixture/equipment. Systems shall be designed to provide at least 280 kPa (40 psi) residual (flowing) pressure at the most remote outlet on the
laboratory water system and not less than 240 kPa (35 psi) residual pressure for the hydraulically remote fixture on the domestic plumbing
system. NIH DRM Section 8.3.4.1.B
13. A pressure‐reducing station shall be provided if required to limit maximum water pressure to 550 kPa (80 psi) at any service outlet. Major

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 44 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 pressure reducing station valves shall be of the hydraulically-operated pilot-type automatic control valve, municipal grade with stainless steel
trim. NIH DRM Section 8.3.4.1.C
14. Piping systems shall be properly insulated. NIH DRM Section 8.3.5.C
15. Pipe mains shall be designed for the maximum calculated flow at the design stage and to provide a 20% allowance for future expansion. NIH
DRM Section 8.3.5 F
16. The pipe sizing criteria shall comply with requirements of Table 8.4.5, Minimum Waste Piping Diameters. NIH DRM Section 8.4.5.B
17. Vacuum lines must be protected with HEPA filters, or their equivalent. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.7
18. Filters must be replaced as needed. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.7
19. Liquid disinfectant traps may be required. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.7
20. Utility services needed within a BSC must be planned carefully. Protection of vacuum systems must be addressed (Figure 12). BMBL 5th
ed. Appendix A
21. If vacuum lines are used with toxin, they should be protected with a HEPA filter to prevent entry of toxins into the line. BMBL 5th ed. Appendix
I
22. The use of disinfectant traps and hydrophobic filters are required at each point of use, including biological safety cabinets and aerosol
chambers. Filters utilized shall be at least HEPA efficiency for liquid and gas streams; and permanent type pipe-line filters should be
sterilizing grade for repeated usage. NIH DRM Section 8.6.5.A
23. Laboratories must have a sink for hand washing. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.2
24. Sink must be hands free or automatically operated. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.2
25. Locate sink near the exit door. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.2
26. All laboratories require a hands-free or automated hand washing sink located near the exit door. NIH DRM Section 4.9.8.G
27. Sink faucets shall be hands-free that are either electric sensor operated and hard-wired to AC power, or foot pedal actuated with slow‐close
off-the-floor mounted valves with flip‐up pedals to permit cleaning. Battery actuated faucets and faucets which operate with hands, wrist or
elbow are not acceptable. Knee operated valves shall include suitable anchorage, or shall be knee-panel type with pneumatic control valves
(scrub-sink type). NIH DRM Section 8.6.11.1.B
28. Sinks must be available for handwashing in each zone within a BSL‐3 suite. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.2
29. Additional sinks may be required by risk assessment. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.2
30. Faucets within containment shall have gooseneck-type spouts and be fitted with integral ASSE 1001 atmospheric vacuum breaker and laminar
flow, non-aerating, non-splash outlet. NIH DRM Section 8.6.11.1
31. Flow rates shall be at least 2 gal/min. NIH DRM Section 8.6.11.1
32. Where stainless steel sinks are used, surface undercoating and sound‐deadening pads shall be omitted. NIH DRM Section 8.6.11.4.A
33. Shower‐out capability may be required based on agent summary statement, risk assessment, or applicable local, state, or federal regulations.
BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.14
34. Risk assessment may require the use of pass through showers in the exiting sequence. When not required, consideration should be given
to the addition of showers for future flexibility. NIH DRM Section 2.5.3.5.C
35. Maximum outlet temperature at showers shall be limited to 45 degrees C (112 deg. F) at the individual fixture limit stop. NIH DRM Section
8.2.9.B
36. Showers shall provide a minimum flow rate of 2.5 gal/min. NIH DRM Section 8.6.11.2.A
37. Hand-held shower shall not be utilized except where specifically required for barrier-free compliance and shall include a vacuum breaker. NIH

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 45 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 DRM Section 8.6.11.2.A
38. Outlets requiring potable supply direct from the domestic potable water system (e.g., emergency eyewash, showers, and toilet room/shower
fixtures located in containment) shall be isolated from other functions with an ASSE 1013 backflow preventer. NIH DRM Section 8.6.2.C
39. Indirect waste (including but not limited to fire sprinkler drains) shall not terminate into other plumbing fixtures including janitor mop sinks,
showers, or other fixtures not dedicated specifically for receipt of indirect waste. NIH DRM Section 8.4.10.D
40. All drain inlets within containment shall discharge to the dedicated waste system serving BSL‐ 3 facilities. NIH DRM Section 8.6.9.1.D
41. The sterilized effluent from BSL-3 autoclave chambers fitted with decontamination of all chamber effluent may discharge through the sanitary
system or general building laboratories waste system as an indirect connection through a floor sink. The drain receptor shall be located on
the clean (non-contained) side of the bioseal (typically within the clean sterilizer service access area). NIH DRM Section 8.6.9.1.P
42. Floor drains/floor sinks shall be avoided in containment. NIH DRM Section 8.6.9.1.H
43. Waste systems shall be atmospherically vented to the building exterior and shall include deep seal traps for all drain inlets within containment.
NIH DRM Section 8.6.9.1.A
44. Waste pipe clean-out access shall be arranged similar to other piping penetrations to maintain integrity of the containment barrier, typically
arranged as a threaded capped or plugged pipe extension through a wall. NIH DRM Section 8.6.9.1.J

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 46 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Telecom, Security & Documentation
Telecom
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Exposed conduit, piping or pathways are Any material exposed in the BSL-3 N/A
to be resistant to decontamination laboratory shall be resistant to
chemicals and easily cleaned behind, if decontamination methods.
surface mounted.

Provision for landline telephone must be Landline makes communication with Provide an intercom or hands‐
made available. dispatch easier free telephone in each room,
including anteroom 1
• System must be connected
to a location that has
personnel available for
emergency response at all
times work is being
performed in a BSL‐3
laboratory.

Provide a method for electronic transfer of Electronic transfer method eliminates N/A
information to outside of containment the practice of transferring documents
(e.g.: scanner, fax, iPad, etc.). 2 from the BSL-3 to areas outside of
containment.

Security
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Anteroom doors must be self-closing and Self-closing doors are required to both N/A
interlocked. Interlocked doors must have maintain the pressure differential and
an emergency override. 3, 4, the security of the space. Locks are
required to prevent unauthorized
access to the containment facility.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 47 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Electronic access control is required at Due to the use of biohazardous Video surveillance cameras
Anteroom for access to BSL‐3 suite. materials, access to the should be installed to provide live
System must provide access history. 5, 6, 7, biocontainment facility must be strictly and recorded video activity
limited to trained authorized outside of the secured space, in
personnel. interior activity spaces, and
• Provide card key, biometric, or covering materials of
PIN security access. Link system interest. IP-based, high
to EH&S and/or building/campus resolution (minimally 3
security. megapixel), powered using
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) and
should be Wide Dynamic Range
and Low Light (if not infrared)
capable.
• The access control and video
surveillance system devices
should be coordinated to
allow for recording and
monitoring of entry and exit
events. Due to the sensitivity
of research, the physical
security systems should be
integrated to provide for real
time monitoring and post
evening auditing of the video
surveillance and electronic
access control
systems. Please utilize any
existing enterprise systems
in coordination with the
Campus Police Department.
• Emergency/duress
notification systems should
be installed in the laboratory
spaces where work is being

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 48 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 performed. A two way,
single button push
emergency phone with direct
connection to the Campus
Police Department should be
installed in a highly visible
and easily accessible
location in the
laboratory. Please utilize
any existing enterprise
systems in coordination with
the Campus Police
Department.

Access to mechanical and support spaces N/A Consider a method for

must be designed to limit unauthorized maintaining an access control
users. record for mechanical/support
spaces.

Signage
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide space on or near the anteroom Accurate signage information is N/A

door for appropriate signage, coordinated important for many reasons, including
with EH&S and the Fire Marshal. health and safety. Conversely, for
security reasons detailed signage
may be a concern. To determine
actual signage requirements, the
design team should meet with the
University's EH&S and the Fire
Marshal.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 49 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Enhanced Facilities
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Enhanced facility requirements shall be In some cases, risk assessment may N/A
determined by risk assessment study. call for facility designs that exceed
Enhancements may be required for those recommended in the BMBL
facility and security based on Select BSL‐3 guidelines. This may be due to
Agent Requirements. Example includes the agents and/or volumes in use, the
shower-out capabilities for projects experimental procedures or other
involving work with Highly Pathogenic guidelines that may be followed. The
Avian Influenza. 8, 9, 10 enhancements noted have all been
noted in other parts of this document
and may be required to further protect
the users and environment, to better
be able to decontaminate the facility
or to provide better security.
• Laboratory effluent
decontamination

Verification & Documentation

Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

The BSL‐3 facility design, operational BSL‐3 facilities are some of the most N/A
parameters, and procedures must be complicated facilities to design,
verified and documented prior to construct and operate. The complex
operation. Facilities must be re‐verified systems must be thoroughly
and documented at least annually. 11 documented and facilities personnel
should be trained to maintaining the
various systems.

An independent third-party Documentation of initial testing must Commissioning agent should be

commissioning agent (CA) is required for be provided and must comply with involved from the beginning of
design consultation and certification of the ANSI Z9.14 standards. the project.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 50 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 BSL‐3 Facility. The Biosafety Officer and
High-Containment Director must be
included in the BSL‐3 facility design and
certification. BSL‐3 laboratories must be
certified by an experienced team of
engineers and biosafety professionals
before initial operation. 12, 13
• Certification must be done in the
presence of the Biosafety officer
and/or High-Containment Director.
• The facility must be tested and
verified at least annually in
coordination with the HCLD to provide
assurance that the facility is in proper
operational condition.

Seismic
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

All tall (over 42 inches) and/or heavy This is to prevent damage of N/A
equipment must be provided with seismic equipment in the event of an
restraints designed to withstand shaking earthquake.
equivalent to 7.0 on the Richter scale. 14

Tall and/or movable cabinets must be Penetrations made to the containment N/A
seismically anchored. Anchor points that envelop need to be sealed to maintain
penetrate the containment barrier must be proper directions airflow.
properly sealed.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 51 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

Telecom, Security & Documentation References
1 . Evaluate availability of emergency two-way communication system. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.3
2 . Evaluate availability of system provided for electronic transfer of information to outside of containment. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.3
3 . Laboratory doors must be self‐closing and have locks in accordance with the institutional policies. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety
Level 3.D.1
4 . Physical separation of the high containment laboratory from access corridors or other laboratories or activities may be provided by a
double-door clothes change room (showers may be included), airlock, or other access facility which requires passage through two sets
of doors before entering the laboratory. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-a
5 . Laboratory access is restricted. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.1
6. At BSL-3, more emphasis is placed on primary and secondary barriers. Secondary barriers for this level include controlled access to
the laboratory. BMBL 5th ed. Section III.Principles of Biosafety.Biosafety Levels
7 . Advanced access control devices, such as biometrics, may be required by the agent summary statement, risk assessment, or applicable
local, state or federal regulations. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.14
8 . Biosafety Level 3 Enhanced for Research Involving Risk Group 3 Influenza Viruses. (See Appendices G-II-C-2-n, G-II-C-2-r, and G-II-
C-4-i for additional guidance for facilities, waste handling, and serum collection for research involving mammalian­transmissible HPAI
H5N1 virus. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-5
9 . Enhanced environmental and personal protection may be required by the agent summary statement, risk assessment, or applicable
local, state or federal regulations. Laboratory enhancements may include, one or more of the following: BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.14
1 0 . An anteroom for clean storage of equipment and supplies with dress‐in , shower‐out capabilities BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety
Level 3.D.14
1 1 . The BSL‐3 facility design, operational parameters, and procedures must be verified and documented prior to operation. Facilities must be
re‐verified and documented at least annually. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.15
1 2 . An independent third-party commissioning agent (CA) is required. NIH DRM Section 1.10.1.E
1 3 . Personnel shall verify that the direction of the airflow (into the laboratory) is proper. The exhaust air from the laboratory room may be
discharged to the outside without being filtered or otherwise treated unless research is being conducted with mammalian
transmissible HPAI H5N1 virus. For research with mammalian-transmissible HPAI H5N1 virus, exhaust air must be HEPA filtered
and there must be sealed ductwork from the containment barrier to the filter. In addition, the air handling system shall be
designed such that under failure conditions, the airflow will not be reversed and periodic verification, with annual verification of the
HEPA filters, shall be performed. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-i
1 4 . Any equipment, including but not limited to, appliances and shelving to be installed by the contractor, which is 42 inches or higher and
has the potential for falling over during an earthquake, or moving and blocking corridors or doors, shall be permanently braced or
anchored to wall-studs, structural columns and/or the floor. UC Laboratory Design Manual, Seismic Hazard Abatement #3.

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 52 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 Safety and Decontamination
Safety
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide adequate storage for safety Readily available safety equipment will N/A
equipment and supplies in the BSL‐3 facilitate response in an emergency.
suite, including biological and chemical
spill kits. 1

Provide binocular, hands-free eyewash. N/A Provide binocular, hands-free

2, 3, 4
eyewash in each room of a BSL-
3 that complies with current ANSI
eyewash standard (Z358.1).

Provide a combination emergency N/A Flow alarms should be provided

shower/eyewash unit. Coordinate exact on emergency showers in lab
location(s) with EH&S. Locate unit in a spaces to notify the staff of
central location within the BSL-3 possible issue(s).
laboratory/suite. Emergency
shower/eyewash unit location must be
compliant with ANSI 358.1‐2014 and
Cal-OSHA regulations. 5, 6, 24

Provide mounted type ABC fire Provide type ABC fire extinguisher at Provide in gasket, recessed
extinguisher at contained side of contained side of anteroom door. Risk cabinet.
anteroom door. Risk assessment and assessment and Fire Marshal
Fire Marshal requirements shall requirements shall determine need for
determine need for additional fire additional fire extinguishers.
extinguishers. The maximum travel
distance to an extinguisher shall be 15
m (50 ft.). For open labs, the fire
extinguisher shall be located as closely
as possible to the exit access doors.7, 8

C BSL-3 LABORATORY DESIGN STANDARDS 53 FINAL VERSION JAN 2020

 BSL‐3 facilities shall be fully protected N/A Fire sprinkler sensors for
with an automatic sprinkler system placement near autoclaves or
based on local regulations. Fire other high heat/steam generating
sprinkler heads, if in canopy hoods, equipment should be designed to
should be rated higher than the steam prevent nuisance triggering and
temperature. 9 floods

Sprinkler heads shall be pendent type N/A N/A

and not be recessed or concealed. The
piping drop shall extend through the
penetration sufficient to allow for
application of a visible seal.
Escutcheons shall not be provided. A
flat solid stainless steel plate or washer
that is tight fitting against the pipe may
be utilized bedded in sealant and
sealed to the pipe circumference. Pipes
shall be braced to prevent movement
that may damage the barrier seal. 10

Provide space in anteroom for storage N/A Considerations for privacy and
of clean PPE. Provide areas for laundry changing areas should be made
and/or waste bin for disposal of dirty
PPE as necessary. Provide space and
outlets for PAPR charging station and
adequate space for donning/doffing
procedures.

Provide local audible and visual alarms N/A Consider also reporting alarm to
for the following: 11 PI, facilities or campus
• Fire hazard security/police, as appropriate for
• HVAC failure a given alarm condition.
• Differential pressure at any door out • Freezer and incubator alarms

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 of range should be considered.
• Switch to emergency power Supply utilities for such
• Alarms must be clearly audible alarms
above ambient noise levels and • Security alarms at
audible and visible throughout the appropriate points (e.g.
laboratory. doors, windows, other)

Alarms must be on UPS power. 12 N/A Alarms should be differentiated

from each other (in the BMS) so
that each can be easily identified.

Decontamination
Standard Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide pass-through autoclave in the N/A N/A

BSL‐3 suite 13, 14, 15, 16
• Provide exhaust hoods on the clean
and dirty sides of double door
autoclaves. The dirty side canopy
hood must connect to the BSL‐3
exhaust. The clean side canopy
hood is connected to the general
lab exhaust.
• Provide space adjacent to the
autoclave on the dirty and clean
side of pass-through autoclave for
waste collection and disposal.

Rooms shall be capable of being The facility should be capable of being Consider placement of
sealed for protocols that require fully sealed for decontamination decontamination ports that are
gaseous and/or vapor decontamination. purposes. accessible from the outside of the
17, 18, 19
facility.

Decontamination corridor
integrated into the design for

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 decontamination of large pieces
of equipment.

Facility should be designed to

allow for individual rooms or
zones to be isolated for
decontamination.

Liquid effluent from BSL-3 autoclaves Based on risk assessment, liquid from N/A
may be discharged to sanitary sewer or the BSL-3 autoclave may need to be
reclaimed as appropriate. 20 treated prior to disposal to municipal
sewer.

Air evacuated from the autoclave Provide HEPA filter at the autoclave N/A
chamber prior to decontamination cycle vacuum system to minimize release of
shall be considered potentially infectious material during purging phase.
contaminated and requires HEPA
filtration or other validated method.

Class II Biological Safety Cabinets must Primary containment is required for N/A
meet the NSF/ANSI 49 standard. 21, 22, manipulations of infectious materials
23

• Class III BSC may be required

based on a risk assessment.

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Safety and Decontamination References
1. Evaluate availability of emergency equipment. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.3
2. An eyewash station must be readily available in the laboratory. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.8
3. A BSL‐3 environment shall have: Hands free hand washing sink with eyewash. NIH DRM 8.2.10.1
4. Available hands-free sink near laboratory exit. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.3
5. In spaces where a significant hazard exists and it is likely a user may be present without supervision, a flow alarm shall be provided to
indicate emergency shower operation. The alarm shall provide local audible alert and remote alert. NIH DRM Section 8.2.10.D
6. Validate availability of emergency shower. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section II.13
7. All fire extinguisher cabinets shall be sized to contain the approved fire extinguisher. Cabinet doors shall not have locks. The maximum travel
distance to an extinguisher shall be 15 m (50 ft.). For open labs, the fire extinguisher shall be located as closely as possible to the exit access doors.
NIH DRM Section 9.4.4
8. Evaluate availability of working fire extinguisher. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.3
9. BSL‐3 facilities shall be full protected with an automatic sprinkler system. NIH DRM Section 9.5.1.1.A
10. Sprinkler heads shall be pendent type and not be recessed or concealed. The piping drop shall extend through the penetration sufficient to
allow for application of a visible seal. Escutcheons shall not be provided. A flat solid stainless steel plate or washer that is tight fitting against
the pipe may be utilized bedded in sealant and sealed to the pipe circumference. Brace pipes to prevent movement that may damage the
barrier seal. NIH DRM Section 9.5.1.1.B, 9.5.1.1.D
11. In the event of loss of directional airflow, personnel in the containment space shall be notified of such condition via audible and/or visual
alarms. Alarm indication should be located inside the laboratory space(s), at the entrance of the BSL-3. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.3
12. Power to BMS and other control systems for monitoring, controlling, and alarming HVAC normal and failure modes should be on UPS. ANSI
Z9.14 Sec. 8.4.6
13. A method for decontaminating all laboratory wastes should be available in the facility, preferably within the laboratory (e.g., autoclave,
chemical disinfection, or other validated decontamination method). BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.11
14. Provide stainless steel exhaust canopy hoods over door to capture steam (both sides). “Dirty” side canopy exhaust should be tied into
contaminant exhaust. “Clean” side canopy exhaust may be tied into non-contaminant exhaust. NIH DRM Section 6.6.10.A
15. Autoclave for decontaminating laboratory wastes is available. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-h
16. Equipment that penetrates secondary barrier shall be provided with a manufacturer-supplied bioseal. Bioseal shall form a continuous,
airtight seal. NIH DRM Section 4.9.11.B
17. Selection of the appropriate materials and methods used to decontaminate the laboratory must be based on the risk assessment. BMBL 5th
ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.3
18. All penetrations into and through partitions, floors, and ceilings shall be sealed to enhance sanitation, facilitate gas and vapor
decontamination, and resist air infiltration. NIH DRM Section 2.6.2.5.
19. Gas tightness for decontamination NIH BSL-3 Certification Section I.2
20. The sterilized effluent from BSL‐3 autoclaves may discharge through sanitary system or general building laboratory waste system as an
indirect connection through a floor sink. The drain receptor shall be located on the clean side of the bioseal (including with the clean utility
access area.) NIH DRM Section 8.6.9.P

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 21. All procedures involving the manipulation of infectious materials must be conducted within a BSC, or other physical containment devices. No
work with open vessels is conducted on the bench. When a procedure cannot be performed within a BSC, a combination of personal
protective equipment and other containment devices, such as a centrifuge safety cup or sealed rotor must be used. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.B.10
22. Refer to Appendix F "Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) Placement Requirements for New Buildings and Renovations" for BSC placement
guidelines. NIH DRM Appendix F
23. Verify correct placement of biological safety cabinets with respect to supply and exhaust diffusers, doors and traffic patterns. NIH BSL-3
Certification Section II.6

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 BSL-3 Standard Equipment
Autoclaves
Minimum Standards Explanation Best Design Practice

Provide an autoclave within the N/A Provide a pass-through autoclave

laboratory. 1, 2, 3 opening to a secure room outside
the BSL-3 suite.
• Pass through autoclaves
penetrating the BSL‐3 barrier
should have an approved
bioseal. The body of the
autoclave should be on the
outside of the containment
barrier. 4, 5, 6
• Autoclave doors should be
interlocked. 7
• Floor sink for the autoclave
should be on the outside of
the containment barrier. 9, 10
• Clean side autoclave doors
should not open directly onto
a public corridor but should
open into a vestibule with
doors separating it from the
public corridor. 11, 12
• Provide exhaust hoods on the
clean and dirty sides of double
door autoclaves. The dirty
side canopy hood should
connect to the BSL‐3 exhaust.
The clean side canopy hood
can be connected to the
general lab exhaust. 13, 14
• Provide space adjacent to the

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 dirty side of the autoclave for
waste collection. 15, 16

Autoclave size, accessories and N/A N/A

decontamination cycles shall be
determined during the design phase in
coordination with EH&S. 17

Biosafety Cabinets
Minimum Standards Explanation Best Design Practice

BSCs must meet the NSF/ANSI 49 Locate BSCs to minimize air current BSCs should be placed according
standard. Include space for seismic effects of passing traffic and door to the NIH DRM Appendix A.
bracing. 18, 19, 20 openings. Adhere to any UC ergonomics
policies.
• Perform a risk assessment to
determine if the BSCs can be
safely exhausted back into the
room or if they require a
thimble or hard connection.
Hard ducted cabinets (B1 or
B2) cannot be installed
without consultation with
EH&S.

For labs that will be performing aerosol Aerosol challenges shall be conducted N/A
challenges, consideration must be given within a class III biological safety cabinet,
to Class III BSC with enhancements (e.g.: other primary containment device, or
double door sterilizer or dunk tank) or other approved inhalation - exposure
other primary containment devices. Work system capable of withstanding rigorous
with HCLD and EH&S for risk assessment decontamination by disinfectants required
of specific aerosol challenges. 21, 22, 23 by the program.
• Provide HEPA filtration for supply and
exhaust of Class III BSCs.

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 • Class III BSCs must be directly (hard)
connected up through the second
exhaust HEPA filter of the cabinet.
Supply air must be provided in such a
manner that prevents positive
pressurization of the cabinet.

Flow Cytometry
Minimum Standards Explanation Best Design Practice

If flow cytometers are used in a BSL‐3 N/A N/A

facility, they must be installed within a
biological safety cabinet or other primary
containment device specifically designed
for the purpose of containing any aerosols
produced. 24, 25

Centrifuge
Minimum Standards Explanation Best Design Practice

Centrifuges shall be equipped with N/A N/A

gasketed safety cups, sealed rotors or
operated only within a BSC. 26, 27

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BSL-3 Standard Equipment References
1. A method for decontaminating all laboratory wastes should be available in the facility, preferably within the laboratory (e.g., autoclave,
chemical disinfection, or other validated decontamination method). BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.A.8, Section IV.Biosafety
Level 3.D.11
2. Solid waste shall be decontaminated by use of an autoclave. Autoclaves with a double door pass through function are preferable, but single
door autoclaves are acceptable. NIH DRM Section 4.9.10
3. An autoclave for decontaminating laboratory wastes is available preferably within the laboratory. NIH Guidelines Appendix G-II-C-4-h
4. All equipment integral to the containment barrier requires a manufacturer supplied biological seal in the containment wall. The biological
seal shall be a structural stable, mechanically fastened gasketed seal capable of containing decontaminating gas and allowing for differential
movement and remaining intact for gaseous decontamination protocols. NIH DRM Section 2.6.2.5
5. Design documents shall include large scale penetration details for each type of barrier wall, floor and ceiling penetration including bioseals.
NIH DRM Section 2.6.4.1
6. Penetration seals shall be readily visible (when applicable) for inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. ANSI Z9.14 Section 8.3.2
7. Pass through autoclaves shall not permit door opening on the clean side prior to completion of a validated decontamination cycle. NIH DRM
Section 4.9.10
8. Interlocks shall be connected to the Building Automation System. NIH DRM Section 4.9.3.2
9. A sink shall be located in the clean side of autoclaves for disposal of sterilized liquid waste. NIH DRM Section 4.9.10
10. The floor sink for receiving the sterilized chamber condensate shall be located on the clean side of the bioseal, typically in the utility service
access space. NIH DRM Section 4.9.10
11. A pass-through autoclave from containment to an anteroom outside of the containment barrier eliminates the need for transport of
contaminated material outside of containment NIH DRM Section 2.5.4.2
12. Clean side autoclave doors shall not open directly onto a public corridor but shall open into a vestibule with doors separating it from the
laboratory. NIH DRM Section 4.9.10
13. The room shall have adequate exhaust capacity to remove heat, steam, and odors generated by the use of the autoclave. NIH DRM Section
4.6.1.12.C
14. A canopy exhaust hood shall be provided above the autoclave door to capture steam and odors. In two-door pass through configurations, a
canopy hood is required above the non-containment side door. A second exhaust hood may be required over the containment side door if
the program calls for autoclaving materials into the containment barrier. Canopy hoods on the containment side shall be connected to the
HEPA-filtered containment zone exhaust system. Canopy hoods on the non-containment side shall be connected to the non- containment
exhaust system. NIH DRM Section 4.9.10
15. Each laboratory area shall be provided with designated space for the safe storage of biological. NIH DRM Section 2.1.3.7.4
16. Laboratories shall be designed with a room for temporary storage of hazardous waste. NIH DRM Section 1.11.3.4
17. Risk Assessment, Systems Failure & Disaster Mitigation NIH DRM Section 1.15.6
18. All procedures involving the manipulation of infectious materials must be conducted within BSCs or other physical containment devices
BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3
19. Placement of fume hoods and BSCs in laboratories shall be in accordance with the Biological Safety Cabinet Placement Guide. NIH DRM

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 Appendix A
20. BSC's should be located away from doors, heavily traveled laboratory areas, and other possible airflow disruptions. BMBL 5th ed. Section
IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.6
21. Class III BSCs must be directly and independently exhausted through two HEPA filters in series. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level
3.D.10
22. Class III BSCs must be directly (hard) connected up through the second exhaust HEPA filter of the cabinet. Supply air must be provided in
such a manner that prevents positive pressurization of the cabinet. BMBL 5th ed. –Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.10
23. Aerosol challenges shall be conducted within a class III biological safety cabinet or other approved inhalation- exposure equipment capable
of withstanding rigorous decontamination using chemicals required by the program. All materials in the containment cabinet shall be
decontaminated prior to exiting the cabinet. An in-line double-door sterilizer and a dunk tank or fumigation integral to the BSC may be
required based on risk assessment and program requirements. NIH DRM Section 4.9.11.C
24. Equipment that may produce infectious aerosols must be contained in primary barrier devices that exhaust air through HEPA filtration or
other equivalent technology before being discharged into the laboratory. These HEPA filters should be tested and/or replaced at least
annually. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.12
25. Ensure that continuous flow centrifuges or other equipment that may produce aerosols are contained in devices that exhaust air through
HEPA filters before discharge into the laboratory. NIH BSL-3 Certification Section II-10
26. Equipment that may produce infectious aerosols must be contained in primary barrier devices that exhaust air through HEPA filtration or
other equivalent technology before being discharged into the laboratory. These HEPA filters should be tested and/or replaced at least
annually. BMBL 5th ed. Section IV.Biosafety Level 3.D.12
Procedures and equipment used routinely for handling infectious agents in laboratories, such as pipetting, blenders, non-self-contained
centrifuges, sonicators, and vortex mixers are proven sources of aerosols. BMBL 5th ed. Section II.Hazardous Characteristics of
Laboratory Procedures

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Appendix I
UC BSL3 Design Standards Deviation Request Form
To initiate a deviation request, present this completed form to your campus High Containment
Laboratory Oversight Group (HCLOG) for review. Once approved by the campus HCLOG, the
request will be provided to the systemwide High Containment Laboratory Oversight Committee
(HCLOC) for final review.

As part of the review process, the HCLOC Chair will select a subcommittee of five designated
reviewers. One member shall be an HCLOG chair from a location other than the submitting campus,
one member shall be the HCLD from the submitting campus, and the remaining three members will
be chosen by the HCLOC Chair or Vice Chair. The subcommittee will strive to provide the submitting
campus a decision within 10 working days of receiving all the necessary information.

Please note financial restrictions do not outweigh safety requirements. Requests for deviations
cannot be based solely on financial constraint.

Campus:
High Containment Lab Director:
Campus BSL3 Building Location Details (see request for relevant documentation below):
Principle Investigator(s):
Date: Click or tap to enter a date.

UC BSL3 Design Standard – provide the standard section or sections you are seeking to deviate
from

Section:
Number:
State the standard:

Justification for Deviation

Explain why you are unable to adhere to the standard:

Discuss any alternate plans for mitigation:
Discuss any possible risks associated with the deviation:

Proposed research

Overview of research projects to be conducted in the facility:

List proposed agents/toxins in use:

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 Select Agents:
Select Toxins:
Tier 1 Select Agents/Toxins:
List any other applicable Federal Agency Requirements:

List experimental procedures:

Describe standard laboratory procedures:
Describe any proposed high-risk procedures:
Discuss any future projects or plans for this facility:

Personnel

How many BSL3 users:

Support staff:

Facility Layout – provide a full description of the space

Describe the laboratory space:

Is there an ante room:
Will there be ABSL3 space:

Relevant documentation – attach the following:

1. Laboratory Floor Plans
2. Building Floor Plans
3. Facility Specifications
4. Mechanical Plans
5. Approved BUAs or Research Summaries

Submitting Campus Signatures:

HCLOG Chair
HCLD
HCLOG Review Date: Click or tap to enter a date.

HCLOC Review Notes:

Date Received: Click or tap to enter a date.
HCLOC review notes and decision:
Date Returned to submitting campus: Click or tap to enter a date.

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