The University of Iowa

SAFETYmatters - Updated Door Signage for Biosafety Level 2 Laboratories

Article published September 2019

EHS has developed a BSL2 door sign template to help BSL2 labs on the UI campus meet the door signage requirements detailed in the Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL)1

BSL2 Signage

In reference to the required signage for BSL2 labs, the BMBL states “A sign incorporating the universal biohazard symbol must be posted at the entrance to the laboratory when infectious agents are present. Posted information must include: the laboratory’s biosafety level, the [PI’s] name (or other responsible personnel), [emergency] telephone number, and required procedures for entering and exiting the laboratory.” 

EHS Lab Safety Advisors will be handing out printed copies of the template during annual lab safety audits. Prior to posting, lab personnel can complete the signs by adding in lab-specific handwritten information. Alternatively, labs wishing to fill out the template electronically can download a copy of the Word doc template (see link below) and fill in their lab-specific information*. The completed signs should be printed in color and posted on the BSL2 lab entry door.  

* Note: The template will be downloaded as a “Read-only” file. To edit the document, you must first save a copy to your computer. The locally saved copy will be fully editable. 

Questions regarding the new door sign can be directed to Biosafety Officer Nyree Mortensen (353-5679) or Associate Biosafety Officer Norma Miller (467-1123) 

Document:

BSL2 Door Sign template 

References: 

  1. U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health. Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 5th edn. (US Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, 2009).