AS/NZS 2243.3:2002

Specifies requirements and gives recommended practices relating to safety in laboratories in which microorganisms are handled. Includes descriptions of risk group categories for microorganisms and requirements for facilities of corresponding containment levels.

This Standard sets out requirements, responsibilities and general guidelines relating to safety in laboratories where microorganisms and prions are handled. It is intended for laboratories, including animal, plant and invertebrate containment facilities, whether integral or separate to the laboratory, where microbiological work such as research, teaching, diagnosis, quality control and regulatory analysis, e.g. of foodstuffs, water and effluents, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, is undertaken. It may also provide assistance to other laboratories where specimens which may contain pathogenic microorganisms and prions are handled such as biochemistry and soil laboratories. This Standard should be read in conjunction with AS/NZS 2243.1.NOTES: 1 In this context, microorganism means protozoa, fungi, free-living bacteria, cell-dependent bacteria and viruses.2 This Standard uses the term ‘containment facility’ when referring to ancillary sections of laboratories. Historical terms such as plant houses, glass houses, insectaries and animal houses are no longer used. For example, an animal house is referred to as an animal containment facility.3 This Standard does not provide detailed guidance for genetic manipulation work for which the appropriate body should be consulted. See Clause 4.6.4 Appendix A contains referenced documents that are included in this Standard for additional information and guidance as well as related documents which may be of interest.

First published as AS 2243.3-1979.
Second edition 1985.
Third edition 1991.
Jointly revised and designated AS/NZS 2243.3:1995.
Fifth edition 2002.