What specific safety measures are required at BSL-2?

At Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2), specific safety measures are designed to protect laboratory personnel, the environment, and the public from moderate hazards associated with biological agents. The requirement for standard microbiological practices is critical in ensuring that work is conducted safely. This includes practices such as handwashing, minimizing splashes, and using proper personal protective equipment, including lab coats and gloves.

Controlled access is also a significant aspect of BSL-2 facilities. Only authorized personnel should have access to areas where potentially infectious agents are handled, which helps prevent accidental exposure or release of pathogens into the environment. This controlled access mitigates risks and ensures a safer working environment.

Other options, such as the absence of special equipment or the requirement for complex isolation equipment, do not align with the established safety protocols for BSL-2. While BSL-2 facilities do not require the high-level containment measures needed for more dangerous pathogens, they still necessitate appropriate practices to maintain safety. Furthermore, while quarantine may be necessary for certain organisms, it is not a blanket requirement for all work conducted at this level. Thus, option B accurately reflects the necessary protocols in a BSL-2 environment.