Source: China Standards Information Service Network
From disease diagnosis to pharmaceuticals and scientific research, handling biological materials in laboratories and elsewhere is essential to many industries — but not without hazards. Effective risk management for biological hazards means reducing the likelihood of accidents and the impact on the environment, and using time and other resources more efficiently. To help address this, a new international management system standard has just been released.
SARS, pandemic viruses, and the threat of malicious use of pathogens have all alerted the world to the risks posed by biological materials and to the need for rigorous, risk-prevention-oriented handling. A biorisk management system is a key step toward this goal, as it enables an organization to effectively identify, control, and manage the biosafety and biosecurity risks associated with its activities.
ISO 35001, "Biorisk management for laboratories and other related organisations", is the first international standard on biorisk management systems. It sets out requirements and guidance for laboratories and any other organizations dealing with biological agents, to control and reduce the risks associated with the use of biological agents.
Patty Olinger, convenor of the working group that developed the standard, said that while there are some regional or national standards that help organizations manage their risks and meet regulatory requirements, ISO 35001 is the first to harmonize them, providing internationally recognized best practice that can be used anywhere in the world.
She added: "ISO 35001 provides organizations and individuals with a roadmap on how to organize, systematically manage, and structure their biorisk programmes."
"As the world becomes more integrated, protecting global public health infrastructure is increasingly important."
ISO 35001 was developed by ISO/TC 212 Clinical laboratory testing and in vitro diagnostic test systems, the secretariat of which is held by ANSI, ISO's American member. The standard is available from your country's ISO member or via the ISO Store.
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