Laboratory Biosecurity

Abstract

Since the tragic events of September 2001 and the subsequent dissemination of Bacillus anthracis through the US postal system, the international community has begun to focus more intently on the threat of transnational terrorist groups, and, in particular, on the frightening prospect of large‐scale biological terrorism. Various strategies are being applied to combat the biological threat. Most strategies are reactionary in nature. They focus on improving the ability to detect and respond to a biological attack after it has occurred. The international community has also begun employing preventive strategies. One of the principal strategies in this category is laboratory biosecurity, which is defined as the protection of dangerous pathogens and toxins against theft and misuse. By reducing the risk that potential bioterrorists and others could acquire certain dangerous biological materials, biosecurity provides the first line of defense against biological attacks. There are several unique challenges posed by microorganisms that differentiate biosecurity from other forms of high security, and an effective biosecurity effort must take these into account. The first step towards implementing biosecurity is conducting a laboratory risk assessment. Security risk assessments help reduce risks in bioscience laboratories because they prioritize a wide range of risks, and direct management efforts toward the most effective risk reduction measures for the highest risks. Different techniques can be used to mitigate risks in different circumstances to improve security in bioscience laboratories. Although laboratory biosecurity cannot prevent biocrimes or bioterrorism, it is appropriate to take steps that reduce the likelihood that dangerous pathogens and toxins could be stolen and misused from bioscience facilities.