Biohazard

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Biohazard

Biohazard (/ˈbaɪoʊˌhæzərd/), from the Greek words bios meaning "life" and hazard meaning "danger", is a term used to describe biological substances that pose a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily humans.

Definition

A biohazard could be a bacterium, virus, or other microorganism which can cause disease and harm to humans, animals, or the environment. The term is also used in the context of biology, public health, and the field of biosecurity.

Classification

Biohazards are classified into four levels, from Biohazard Level 1 (organisms that pose minimal threat) to Biohazard Level 4 (organisms that pose a high risk of life-threatening disease). Each level has specific safety and containment protocols associated with it.

Biohazard Symbol

The biohazard symbol is a universally recognized symbol used to denote substances that are considered biohazards. The design is made up of three overlapping circles to represent the potential danger from all directions.

Related Terms

  • Infectious Disease: A disease resulting from the presence and activity of a pathogenic microbial agent.
  • Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism which can cause disease.
  • Contamination: The presence of a minor and unwanted constituent, contaminant or impurity in a material, physical body, natural environment, workplace, etc.
  • Decontamination: The process of removing or neutralizing contaminants that have accumulated on personnel and equipment.

See Also

External links

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