As scientists work around the clock to develop a treatment for Ebola, research on this and other deadly diseases must be conducted in specially designed facilities known as biosafety level four (BSL-4) laboratories.
To gain entrance to a BSL-4 laboratory, researchers must pass through stringent security controls, such as an iris scan. Entrants then shed their street clothes and don scrubs. All personal items except glasses are not allowed inside.
Another mandatory garment is a positive-pressure suit, which offers maximum protection for staffers to work in a potentially hazardous environment. Each suit has a hook connecting to ventilation hoses, which supply medical-grade breathing air for researchers.
Scientists and technicians, while still wearing their protective suits, must take a decontamination shower before they leave. Water and chemicals are sprayed to remove dirt, residue and microbes.
After taking off the suits, researchers take a hot shower before changing into their own clothes and leaving the facility.
![](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/9gqRBB8QgJU/maxresdefault.jpg)