Biosafety

Photo credit: WHO

Biosafety is the safe working practices associated with handling of biological materials, particularly infectious agents. It addresses containment principles, technologies and practices that are implemented to prevent the unintentional exposure to pathogens and toxins, or their accidental release. Responsible laboratory practices, including protection, control and accountability for valuable biological materials will help prevent their unauthorized access, loss, theft, misuse, diversion or intentional release.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean provides technical support to Member States in developing biorisk management strategies to minimize risks of infections through safe and secure practices in laboratory and transport environments in a cost-effective manner. It provides guidance on, and promotes the use of, safe and secure workplace practices, appropriate protective equipment, and engineering and administrative controls in the handling of pathogenic organisms.