The Challenge

As infectious disease threats continue to evolve, CDPH recognized the need to evaluate whether its existing laboratory infrastructure could support current and future biosafety, biosecurity, and operational requirements. The agency sought an independent assessment of its High-Risk Pathogens (HRP) BSL-3 Laboratory, Mycobacterial, Mycotic, and Parasitic Diseases (MMPDS) BSL-3 Laboratory, and associated laboratory spaces to identify opportunities for modernization, improve operational resilience, and support long-term public health readiness.

The Solution

World BioHazTec conducted a comprehensive GAP Analysis utilizing internationally recognized biosafety and engineering standards, including ANSI/ASSP Z9.14, the CDC/NIH Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL), NIH Design Requirements Manual, and WHO biosafety guidance. The multidisciplinary assessment included architectural inspections, HVAC performance evaluations, airflow and pressure differential testing, Building Automation System review, document analysis, stakeholder interviews, and failure scenario testing. WBHT also evaluated future infrastructure options, including major renovation and new construction alternatives, while providing recommendations to support modernization, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and surge response capabilities.

The Result

The assessment provided CDPH leadership with a detailed roadmap for strengthening California’s high-containment laboratory infrastructure. Through identification of facility, engineering, and operational improvement opportunities, CDPH gained actionable data to support strategic decision-making, prioritize investments, and evaluate long-term modernization options. The analysis also established a vision for future-ready laboratory facilities capable of supporting diagnostic testing, biosafety training, outbreak response, and scalable containment operations during public health emergencies. By leveraging WBHT’s expertise in biosafety, biocontainment engineering, and laboratory certification, CDPH is positioned to make informed infrastructure decisions that will help advance public health preparedness and strengthen California’s readiness for future infectious disease threats.