The University of Michigan no longer operates any Biosafety Level 3 laboratories, following the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s changes to containment guidance for SARS-CoV-2 research in March 2025.
BSL-3 labs are designed to handle highly contagious and potentially fatal viruses and pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, HIV and Tuberculosis. The University’s Institutional Biosafety Committee works with Environment, Health & Safety to establish lab guidelines that comply with the proper biosafety levels and CDC regulations, as mandated by the National Institutes of Health.
BSL-3 labs must maintain directional airflow, use two-door airlock entries and have tightly sealed surfaces and decontamination systems for both waste and equipment. Staff usually undergo medical surveillance, including annual health checks and exposure recognition training…