Personnel planning to work at ABSL2 must have specific training in animal facility procedures, the handling of infected animals and the manipulation of pathogenic agents, or be supervised by individuals with adequate knowledge of potential hazards, microbiological agents, animal manipulations and husbandry procedures. Personnel unfamiliar with animal work are discouraged from learning new techniques while working with biohazards in animals. The VSC offers rodent handling workshops to train personnel on basic technique, as well as workshops for specific techniques or consultations on various equipment or practices.

Work with biohazards in animals requires approval from both the APB and APLAC prior to the initiation of any work. In addition to any training requirements outlined in Chapter 6, work with rDNA or infectious agents requires that all personnel complete the course VSC-0004, Working Safely with Biohazardous Agents in Laboratory Animals. Registration for this course is found in STARS, and is required for anyone using biohazardous agents in laboratory animals at Stanford University. The course consists of two segments: a 20-minute web-based video, followed by a classroom session with personnel from the VSC and Biosafety. The classroom sessions are held every other week and can be scheduled by contacting the VSC. Additionally, personnel are required to complete a tour and orientation of the facility to which their animals are assigned. These are conducted by the managers of the facilities and scheduling is done through the VSC.