Which biosafety level requires the use of a lab coat, gloves, and eye protection?

Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) is designed for work involving agents that pose moderate hazards to personnel and the environment. In a BSL-2 laboratory, the standard precautions are enhanced compared to BSL-1. The use of a lab coat, gloves, and eye protection is crucial in BSL-2 settings to minimize the risk of exposure to potentially infectious materials. This attire helps to protect the skin and mucous membranes from splashes, spills, and contact with pathogens that may cause diseases in humans.

In contrast, BSL-1 involves working with well-characterized agents not known to consistently cause disease in healthy adults, and the precautions are less strict, often requiring only basic laboratory safety practices. BSL-3 involves more stringent practices, including the use of respiratory protection due to the increased risk of airborne transmission. BSL-4 includes the highest level of containment precautions for agents that pose a high risk of life-threatening diseases, requiring specialized spaces and equipment, including full-body suits with a dedicated air supply.