Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of containment level 2 laboratories?

Containment level 2 laboratories are designed to handle moderate-risk agents that are associated with human disease, and they have specific safety requirements to ensure the protection of laboratory personnel and the environment. Each of the characteristics tied to containment level 2 laboratories addresses safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with these agents.

The requirement for a Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) is not mandated for all procedures within a containment level 2 lab. While BSCs are recommended for certain procedures that may produce aerosols or involve handling of pathogens, they are not universally required for all work. This allows for some flexibility in laboratory operations, where certain activities may be performed safely without the use of a BSC, provided that other safety measures are in place.

In contrast, handling moderate-risk agents, implementing access control measures, and requiring personal protective equipment (PPE) are all standard practices in a containment level 2 lab. These measures are integral to maintaining a safe environment and minimizing exposure to potentially harmful agents. Thus, the assertion that a BSC is required for all procedures is the correct answer, as it does not align with the actual operational guidelines for containment level 2 laboratories.