BSL-3 Practices Core

PROJECT ABSTRACT (Core 2/C2BSL3@HTRL) The University of Chicago Howard T. Ricketts Biocontainment Laboratory is proposing the establishment of a A/BSL-3 Practices Core, C2BSL3@HTRL, to provide comprehensive training and mentoring in the safe use of pathogenic microorganisms, toxins, and Select Agents. The curriculum covers topics such as biosecurity, risk assessment, biohazard containment, safe handling of pathogens, decontamination, and emergency response plans. The core will develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and provide training for personnel working in the A/BSL-3 space and associated building systems. This core will employ an integrated approach to Biosafety education by strategically coordinating and synergizing the educational experiences for research investigators and support staff, Biosafety professionals, and biocontainment facility engineers. Elements of the training provided by C2BSL3@HTRL include the following:  Annual HTRL Training: This training covers all aspects of biosafety, including the properties of biological agents, risk assessment, personal protective equipment, decontamination, and emergency response plans and is given to all members of the HTRL team.  HTRL Hands-On (one-on-one) Training and Mentoring: This one-on-one training program ensures everyone receives personalized attention and training to address their specific needs, skills, and competencies to work successfully and safely in A/BSL3.  HTRL Monthly Training: The monthly training serves as a vital communication tool for updating all facility users on various aspects of the laboratory. The meeting provides training on future research areas and addresses any concerns or questions that users may have, which promotes collaboration and coordination among all HTRL users.  Aerobiology Maintenance and Training: The aerobiology core provides training on the unique challenges, design, setup, and safe practices of aerobiology and use of the Class III Biosafety Cabinet.  Development of Select Agent SOPs and Inventory: This program describes the development of SOPs and training on inventory reconciliation for all Select Agents and RG3 pathogens.