Abstract

Research investigations into emerging diseases of aquatic organisms often present unique and difficult challenges for biocontainment. While their implications for human health (i.e., biosafety) may not exceed those of endemic or other commonly encountered aquatic animal pathogens, novel aquatic pathogens and invasive organisms may still represent a substantial threat to aquatic wildlife and the local aquatic environment. Providing sufficient means of control and containment when working with these types of pathogens or invasive aquatic species in vivo thus becomes imperative before initiating any related research. In 2004, the Leetown Science Center of the US Geological Survey (Kearneysville, WV), with the guidance of the US Department of Agriculture, began planning for the renovation of existing wet laboratory space to a Level 3 Biosecurity Laboratory for aquaculture (BSL-3 Aquaculture). Actual construction for this project began in 2011 with completion anticipated for mid-2012. Although designed for Biosafety Level 3 standards, the primary purpose of this laboratory is biosecurity and the prevention of release of pathogens or aquatic organisms into the environment. Key features of the BSL-3 Aquaculture facility include UV irradiation of the influent water supply and redundant treatment systems for disinfection of effluent water including microscreen filtration, UV irradiation, and chlorination. The effluent treatment system handles up to 200 gpm water flow with high-intensity ultraviolet arc tubes, captures and disinfects solid waste, and discharges treated effluent. Redundancy is also provided in backup power sources to provide an uninterruptible power supply to the laboratory and its mechanical systems. The BSL-3 aquaculture laboratory space consists of two separate wet laboratories (1140 sq ft and 140 sq ft), a primary hygiene room for entry and exit, and a mechanical room containing the control mechanisms and effluent treatment system. Other Biosafety Level 3 features include negative pressure ventilation with HEPA filtration of exhaust air and room pressure monitoring, sealed and water resistant surfaces (walls, ceiling, floors) throughout the laboratory spaces, and implementation of standard Biosafety Level 3 operational policies for access and use of the laboratory space. Availability and use of this novel laboratory for BSL-3 Aquaculture biocontainment will be a significant asset to the USGS aquatic animal health program and its partners, collaborators and clients for future aquatic animal disease investigations.