National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility

The National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas is the nation’s leading animal disease research facility. This $1.25 billion facility will give agencies the capabilities to conduct research, develop vaccines and have diagnostic capabilities to protect against diseases that threaten the nation’s food supply and safety. NBAF has laboratories functioning at multiple biosafety levels, including being the first facility in the United States with biosafety level 4 containment capable of housing large livestock. 

Developed to ensure public health and the safety and security of the nation’s food supply, the 707,000- gross-square-foot facility is located on a 48-acre site. It is designed with stringent containment, blast-resistant and anti-terrorism requirements, as well as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) high wind design criteria adopted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). 

The NBAF complex includes 574,000 gross square feet of laboratory space, including biosafety level 2, 3 and 4 laboratories. The BSL level 4 containment laboratories require the highest level of safety protocols and equipment, enabling scientists to safely study and diagnose a variety of high-consequence animal pathogens.

It was determined that there was potential risk of a tornado strike to the facility. If a tornado occurs, the facility is designed for structural and containment integrity. This shutdown can be done manually or automatically. The automatic shutdown occurs when a sensor is triggered by rapid atmospheric pressure change that happens when there are tornadoes. Other protective measures such as a concrete structure and additional steel outside of the concrete have been implemented. This is the first BSL-4 lab to have the capabilities to withstand an F5 tornado. 

Technology was used in various ways throughout the construction of the NBAF facility. Virtual Design in Construction (VDC) was used to create 3D concrete lift drawings to ensure precise concrete placement. A 4D model was used for sequencing and coordination of construction activities. Early in construction, the team used a 360-degree camera as it applied updated design requirements for the technology to meet the USDA’s research priorities. 

At the completion of construction and commissioning of the facility, the U.S. DHS Science & Technology Directorate announced that the building was delivered under budget and $10,082,355.80 in gift funds was returned to the state of Kansas. The facility was funded through a shared investment between the federal government, Kansas and the city of Manhattan.