ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of available classifications of harmful biological agents, with particular emphasis on division into four hazard groups, depending on pathogenicity, ability to spread in a human population as well as potential for preventive actions and effective treatment. Characterisation of biological agents is supported by examples typical for individual hazard groups. As work under exposure to biological agents often takes place indoors, example safety measures for such conditions are presented. Next, the so-called containment measures are defined.
The important role of training in the safety assurance system for workers exposed to harmful biological agents is discussed. Practical guidance for occupational risk managers responsible for such workplaces is provided, and the risk assessment procedure is presented. Practical guidance concerning the methods of analysis and assessment of microbiological contamination of ambient air is also given.
