The French labour law, updated in 2021, has classified micro-organisms into four categories based on four parameters to define the risk presented by micro-organisms.  This classification is used at the ESRF for the evaluation of samples.  The French labour law also gives a definition for biological agents; any biological element which may cause any allergy, infection or toxicity or can create any hazard to Human health and/or environment.

 Four hazard groups based on four parameters which are:

  • pathogenicity for human
  • danger for worker
  • spreading to community
  • effective prophylaxis or curative treatment available.

 

Website for micro-organisms classification.

Classification of micro-organisms based on their pathogenicity

Class 1
Contains all micro-organisms never described as causing any human disease and which do not constitute a risk to the environment. They are not even listed in Group E below.

Class 2
Contains micro-organisms that may cause human disease and therefore may constitute a danger for laboratory staff.  Its spreading into the environment is unlikely.  Prophylactic means or curative treatments exist and are effective.

Class 3 - FORBIDDEN AT THE ESRF
Contains micro-organisms that represent a major threat for laboratory staff but a slight risk to the general public.  Effective prophylactic and curative means exist. 

Class 4 - FORBIDDEN AT THE ESRF
Contains all micro-organisms that cause severe human diseases and that represent a real danger for laboratory staff and the general public.  Usually no effective prophylactic or curative treatment exist.