Biosecurity and dual-use awareness in the laboratory

“Biosecurity and dual-use awareness in the laboratory”

Have you ever considered that your research, research results or biological material could also be used in a different – and possibly unwanted – way? The importance of biosecurity to safely handle dangerous pathogens and sensitive technologies against theft, misuse or deliberate release is often not at the top of the list when working in a laboratory. But knowledge and technologies that are developed with good intentions can also be used – consciously or unconsciously – for harmful purposes. This is referred to as dual-use, and can occur in research in the life sciences. Biosecurity measures are therefore essential to protect risky pathogens and knowledge and prevent misuse. But how does this translate into practice?

Awareness of biosecurity and dual-use risks among laboratory staff, including analysts, researchers, safety officers and management, is an important first step in minimizing the risk of unintended spread of pathogens and sensitive knowledge. Bureau Biosecurity will address this and show which practical tools and handles you can use to strengthen safety in the lab, and to ensure that good research is also performed and protected responsibly.

Speakers: Iris Vennis and Sjors Schulpen, RIVM – Bureau Biosecurity