Lab Safety in Action: Bellevue Hospital (Region 2) NSPS Laboratory Training

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As threats from high-consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs) continue to evolve, so too must our response. On April 19, 2025, NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue and NETEC convened laboratory professionals and leaders for an intensive training focused on building laboratory expertise within the National Special Pathogen System (NSPS). The day-long training spotlighted critical elements of lab readiness, from biosafety practices to waste handling. Below are some key takeaways that emerged from this comprehensive training.

1. HCIDs: The Ongoing Threat

The training led with a reminder from Dr. Erin McGuire (Associate Medical Director, NYCH+H/Bellevue Special Pathogens Program): HCIDs—such as Ebola, Marburg, and H5N1—are a growing public health concern. These special pathogens often have high fatality rates, limited treatment options, and the potential for rapid human-to-human transmission. Recent outbreaks in Uganda, the U.S., and elsewhere reinforce the need for ongoing vigilance.

2. NSPS & the Role of Regional Treatment Centers

The National Special Pathogen System (NSPS) is a tiered network designed to develop and strengthen the capability health care systems to provide patients with HCIDs with the appropriate level of care quickly and safely. NETEC is Congressionally designated as the Coordinating Body for the NSPS. At its foundation are Level 4 facilities—everyday healthcare facilities capable of identifying, isolating, and initiating care for suspect patients. At the advanced level are Level 1 Regional Emerging Special Pathogens Treatment Centers (RESPTCs)—high-capacity, fully equipped centers that provide comprehensive care throughout a patient’s illness.

A standout example of a Level 1 facility is NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, the RESPTC for HHS Region 2, which hosted the training. Bellevue Hospital plays, as do all RESPTCs, a critical role in the national response framework—not only capable of treating patients with HCIDs, but also supporting coordination, training, and readiness across the region. RESPTCs like Bellevue Hospital are central hubs in the NSPS structure: they lead in clinical care, training, and surge capacity, and they help anchor preparedness for entire geographic areas.

3. Lab Readiness: Getting the Details Right

Laboratories are on the front lines of special pathogen response, and safety starts with the basics. The training emphasized the importance of certified packaging and shipping, thorough risk assessments for diagnostic testing, and strict instrument decontamination following manufacturer guidance. Teams practiced spill response protocols and reviewed how to manage various types of infectious waste safely and compliantly. A key theme throughout was PPE—selecting the right gear, donning and doffing correctly, and reinforcing protocols through regular training and observation. Preparedness is in the details.

4. Hands-On Practice Makes Perfect

Attendees rotated through skill stations where they practiced key procedures like donning/doffing PPE, managing spills, and handling HCID waste. These interactive sessions underscored the value of repetition and real-time feedback in building competence and confidence.

5. A Culture of Safety

Throughout the training, a consistent message permeated: laboratory preparedness isn’t just about having protocols—it’s about creating a culture of safety. This includes empowering staff to speak up, regularly reviewing risk mitigation strategies, and making training an ongoing commitment rather than a one-time event.

Final Word: Preparedness Is a Team Effort

The NSPS Laboratory Training emphasized that while the lab plays a specialized role, it’s an integral part of the broader special pathogens and emergency response system. With strong coordination, clear protocols, and committed staff, we can ensure rapid, effective responses to even the most challenging infectious threats.