Emerging Infections and Biohazard Response Unit
Westmead Hospital has opened new $3.26 million state-of-the-art high security laboratory.
The purpose-built laboratory allows microbiologists to safely handle and identify any biological threats and toxins including human infectious diseases such as haemorrhagic viruses and bird flu.
The new laboratory will improve the capacity of NSW to respond to threats from potentially dangerous biological threats.
March 2007: Premier inspects lab
NSW Premier Morris Iemma toured the facility prior to opening in March 2007. Now operational, access to the facility is restricted.
Above: Scientist Jimmy Ng demonstrates the use of the lab facilities prior to opening.
Below, left: Greg James from ICPMR shows Premier Morris Iemma some of the safety equipment used by scientists in the lab. Right: Greg James and Morris Iemma inspect the standalone plant room which services the lab.
Project snapshot:
The project: Emerging Infections and Biohazard Response Unit (PC3+ high security containment laboratory)
Project cost: $3.266 million
Location: Westmead Hospital
Project completed: March 2007
