CDC OLSS Laboratory Training Facility Tour, Phase II

At the CDC in Atlanta, Georgia, the Laboratory Training Facility (LTF) is a vital resource for laboratory scientists, providing advanced hands-on training across various biosafety levels. This facility includes training in personal protective equipment, emergency response drills, and laboratory inspections, all within a safe, pathogen-free environment. It also features a specialized decontamination area for research and development of laboratory techniques.

The Office of Laboratory Science and Safety (OLSS) launched the LTF in 2019 to centralize laboratory safety training. With the advent of COVID-19, in-person tours became impractical, prompting the need for a remote tour option. This led to a collaboration between C² Technologies, Inc., WebMD/Medscape, and OLSS, creating the Laboratory Training Facility Virtual Tour. This innovative tour offers a 360-degree view of the LTF, enabling users to navigate the facility online with a mini-map for orientation.

The completion of Phase 2 of the virtual tour significantly enhances its features, introducing multimedia elements such as videos, images, slideshows, and interactive components. These additions provide a richer, more immersive experience, showcasing the facility's equipment and historical significance. The virtual tour supports the CDC's goals in training, safety, and research by offering an accessible, comprehensive view of the LTF.

C² Technologies, Inc., in partnership with WebMD, developed the interactive virtual tour, incorporating 360-degree video footage and collaborating with CDC OLSS on the content and details. This collaboration underscores the commitment to leveraging technology for educational and safety training purposes, ensuring CDC laboratory scientists and staff have the necessary resources and knowledge to excel in their roles.