UTMB is known worldwide for its expertise in biosafety training, which helps ensure that all faculty, staff and students who work in any of the labs at UTMB understand the risks associated with their work and are capable of following proven, documented procedures to control them.
Before any staff or students work independently in the BSL2, BSL3 or BSL4 labs at the Galveston National Lab, they complete a rigorous training program that includes both classroom learning and extensive, closely supervised hands-on training in UTMB’s training lab.
All trainees are independently evaluated to ensure that they understand and practice safe laboratory procedures. Staff or students who will work with laboratory animals receive specific training based on the requirements of their research protocols, and emergency procedures are also taught and drilled regularly.
Trainees learn about the laboratory safety and environmental protection features, equipment operation, waste management systems, and the use of special Personal Protective Equipment. Before anyone is allowed to work independently at the highest level of containment, they must complete 100 hours of supervised training in the BSL4 lab with a Principal Investigator who serves as his or her mentor.
Training experts from UTMB have provided biosafety training to students, scientists and fellow biosafety professionals from across the nation and around the world. They are actively involved in the American Biological Safety Association and ensure that UTMB has one of the most progressive and comprehensive training programs in the world.