What characteristics define BSL-4 laboratories?

BSL-4 laboratories are specifically designed to handle the most dangerous pathogens that pose significant risks to public health and safety, often including agents that can be transmitted via aerosol. These facilities operate with stringent safety protocols and protective measures to prevent any potential exposure to highly infectious agents, such as the Ebola virus or other hemorrhagic fevers. The primary characteristic of a BSL-4 lab is its capability to work with these high-risk agents, making it essential that all personnel wear specialized protective gear and that the labs have advanced containment systems.

Options that refer to low-risk biological agents or minimal safety protocols do not apply to BSL-4 labs, as they are focused on creating an environment where even the slightest chance of exposure is eliminated. Additionally, a focus solely on chemical safety would not align with the purpose of BSL-4 facilities, which are dedicated to biological safety and pathogen containment. The defining characteristics of BSL-4 laboratories thus revolve around their ability to safely manage high-risk biological agents with significant transmission potential.