In our previous Biosafety blog, we discussed whether virus research can be considered safe (https://virologyresearchservices.com/2022/07/21/is-virus-research-safe/). In this post, we build on that by discussing the often confused topics of Biosafety and Biosecurity.
Handling biological materials demands exceptional care and vigilance to prevent dangerous consequences. Failing to understand and implement stringent Biosecurity and Biosafety measures can result in severe accidents, the spread of deadly diseases, and even bioterrorism threats.
In this article, we’ll demystify the crucial concepts of Biosecurity and Biosafety, explore their significance, and examine the governing regulations. Join us as we reveal how these essential elements of modern laboratory practice protect us from accidental and intentional risks with potentially dire outcomes.
Your Handy Guide to Biosecurity and Biosafety Terminology
Navigating the world of Biosecurity and Biosafety can feel like getting lost in a sea of acronyms. To help you stay afloat, here’s a concise introduction to some of the most commonly used terms in this field:
- ATCSA (Anti-Terrorism Crime and Security Act): A law designed to protect the public from acts of terrorism, including those involving the intentional misuse of harmful biological agents, by establishing regulations and penalties.
- COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations): A set of guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of exposure to hazardous substances, including harmful biological materials, by outlining proper handling, storage, and disposal practices.
- NaCTSO (National Counter Terrorism and Security Office): An organization responsible for enforcing the ATCSA by monitoring compliance with biosecurity regulations and providing authorisation for working with specific biological agents.
- SAPO (Specified Animal Pathogens Order): A regulation that focuses on preventing the spread of certain animal pathogens to protect animal health and minimise the risk of disease outbreaks.
- GMO(CU) (Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations): A set of rules governing the safe handling and containment of genetically modified organisms in laboratories to prevent accidental release and potential harm to humans or the environment.
- WHO (World Health Organization): An international organisation that works with governments and other partners to promote global health, coordinate responses to health emergencies, and set guidelines and standards for public health policies.
- IFBA (International Federation of Biosafety Associations): A global network of biosafety associations that aims to promote biosafety and biosecurity by providing resources, training, and certification opportunities for professionals in the field.
- HSE (Health and Safety Executive): A UK government agency responsible for the regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety, and welfare, which includes providing guidance on compliance with COSHH, SAPO, and GMO(CU) Regulations.
ATCSA focuses on Biosecurity, with NaCTSO overseeing its implementation; COSHH governs biosafety, while SAPO and GMO(CU) address specific Biosafety concerns related to animal pathogens and genetically modified organisms, respectively.
As you read through this article, keep this handy guide by your side to quickly decode these acronyms and get a clear picture of the complex world of Biosecurity and Biosafety.
Biosecurity
Biosecurity encompasses measures designed to prevent the spread of diseases, pests, and bioterrorism threats.
Laboratory Biosecurity focuses on protecting and controlling biological agents, toxins, and valuable biological materials within facilities. This is achieved by preventing their loss, theft, misuse, diversion, unauthorised access, or intentional unauthorised release, as emphasised by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2006.
In the UK, the Anti-Terrorism Crime and Security Act (ATCSA) is the primary legislation governing Biosecurity, with Schedule 5 addressing activities involving human and animal pathogens and toxins. Individuals working with Schedule 5 materials must register and obtain authorisation from the National Counter Terrorism and Security Office (NaCTSO), which oversees the ATCSA.
The hazard groups of Schedule 5 pathogens and toxins
The NaCTSO categorises Schedule 5 pathogens and toxins into distinct hazard groups depending on the level of bioterrorism risk. To safely handle these biological materials, facilities must implement stringent security measures, including restricted access, security cages, intruder detection systems, and CCTV surveillance. Only after meeting these requirements will Home Office grant the necessary authorisation.
Biosafety: Legislations and Regulations in the UK
In contrast, biosafety aims to contain biological materials, preventing accidental release and exposure. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations serve as the primary legislation for Biosafety in the UK. These regulations outline measures to prevent exposure to hazardous substances, covering personal protective equipment, staff training, emergency procedures, and safe storage and disposal.
Additional regulations like the Specified Animal Pathogens Order (SAPO) 2008 and the Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 2014 are applicable in specific situations.
To master COSHH regulations, employers must prioritize preventing exposure to hazardous substances by assessing risks, implementing control measures, establishing engineering controls, providing staff training, developing emergency procedures, conducting health surveillance, supplying personal protective equipment, and ensuring safe storage and disposal.
- To learn more about COSHH regulations and how to comply, visit the Health and Safety Executive’s official guidance page.
- Or read the Health and Safety Executive’s guidance on “Management and Operation of Microbiological Containment Laboratories” and “Biological Agents: The Principles, Design, and Operation of Containment Level 4 Facilities” for COSHH compliance.
- Additional guidance is available for working with pathogens or biological materials governed by SAPO or GMO(CU) Regulations.
Authorisation for Regulated Biological Materials
Before handling regulated human or animal pathogens, toxins, or GMOs, individuals must notify the Health and Safety Executive and, if needed, the Home Office. Proper authorisation will be granted once sufficient risk assessments are submitted, demonstrating compliance with all relevant legislation.
Biosecurity and Biosafety in a Changing World
The future of these fields will be marked by emerging challenges, such as the rise of new pathogens, evolving biotechnologies, and the increasing complexity of global supply chains.
Navigating these challenges requires staying up-to-date with the latest information, embracing innovative solutions, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in laboratory safety and security.
Here at Virology Research Services, we work hard to ensure legal compliance and protect the well-being of employees, the public, and the environment. We believe the key to success in this ever-changing landscape is a proactive approach and a steadfast commitment to excellence in Biosecurity and Biosafety practices.
Contact Us
Feeling overwhelmed with Biosecurity and Biosafety challenges? Let our expert virology CRO team help you navigate the complexities and ensure compliance. Contact us today to learn how outsourcing experimental work to VRS can streamline your laboratory operations and safeguard your work environment.
Blog by Max Handley
Edited by Reckon Better Scientific Editing
