Classification of TB Laboratories

Based on 2012 WHO expert group recommendations, TB labs can be classified into three types based on their levels of procedural risk: 

1. Low TB risk
2. Moderate TB risk
3. High TB risk (TB Containment Laboratory)

• Recommendations based on minimum requirements needed to limit or reduce risks of infection in laboratories for carrying out specific procedures.
• Additional measures may be deemed necessary following a site-specific risk assessment.

Based on the operational and diagnostic methods adopted, the laboratories can be classified as:

• The Designated Microscopy Centers (for microscopy only)
• The Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) Laboratories or the Molecular Test Laboratories
• The Culture and Drug Sesitivity Testing (C&DST) Laboratories or the Phenotypic Laboratories

Resources

• GLI LC Training Module on Biosafety, slide no. 30.
• WHO TB Lab Biosafety Manual, 2012.

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