What equipment is typically required for handling BSL-3 materials?

Handling BSL-3 materials requires specific safety measures due to the potential risk of infection from airborne pathogens. The correct answer emphasizes the need for a biosafety cabinet and specialized personal protective equipment (PPE).

A biosafety cabinet provides a controlled environment by employing airflow systems that filter out contaminants, offering both protection for the personnel and preventing the escape of harmful agents into the laboratory environment. Specialized PPE, which may include N95 respirators, surgical gowns, gloves, and face shields, is essential to further reduce the risk of exposure to pathogens.

While the other options include various types of protective measures, they do not meet the stringent requirements necessary for handling BSL-3 agents. A ventilation hood and lab coats, for example, do not provide the enhanced protection that a biosafety cabinet does. Similarly, a chemical fume hood is designed for volatile chemicals and does not provide the necessary containment for biological hazards. Lastly, a refrigerator and safety goggles are insufficient for the level of protection required in a BSL-3 setting, as they do not address the potential for airborne transmission of pathogens.