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What tools can you use to monitor biosafety and biosecurity risks in chemical engineering?

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Biosafety and biosecurity are two important aspects of chemical engineering that deal with the prevention and mitigation of potential hazards and threats from biological agents, such as microorganisms, toxins, or genetic materials. Chemical engineers who work with biological systems or products need to be aware of the potential risks and how to monitor them effectively. In this article, you will learn about some of the tools that can help you assess and manage biosafety and biosecurity risks in chemical engineering.

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Abel Moseme

Technical Services Specialist

1 Risk assessment

The first step to monitor biosafety and biosecurity risks is to conduct a risk assessment, which is a systematic process of identifying, evaluating, and prioritizing the possible hazards and consequences of exposure to biological agents. A risk assessment should consider the characteristics of the biological agent, such as its pathogenicity, toxicity, transmissibility, stability, and origin; the activities and processes involved in handling, storing, transporting, or disposing of the biological agent; the potential routes of exposure, such as inhalation, ingestion, injection, or contact; and the level of protection and control measures available, such as engineering, administrative, or personal protective equipment. A risk assessment should also consider the potential for intentional or accidental misuse, theft, loss, or release of the biological agent, and the impact on human health, environment, and security.

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Engr. Muhammad Husnain Arshad

Chemical Engineer | NEBOSH , IOSH & OSHA Certified |
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In chemical process engineering, risk assessment for biosafety and biosecurity is crucial due to the potential for catastrophic outcomes from the mishandling of biological agents. The systematic approach outlined ensures comprehensive evaluation, encompassing both the inherent properties of the biological agent and the human factors involved in its management. It's important to emphasize that risk assessments are dynamic; they should be regularly updated to reflect changes in processes, technologies, and regulations, ensuring ongoing safety and security in the industry.

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2 Biosafety levels

Based on the risk assessment, the biological agent and the activity or process should be assigned a biosafety level (BSL), which is a set of standards and guidelines that define the appropriate level of containment and practices to prevent or reduce exposure and infection. There are four biosafety levels, ranging from BSL-1 for agents that pose minimal risk to BSL-4 for agents that pose high risk and require maximum containment. Each biosafety level specifies the requirements for laboratory design, equipment, procedures, training, waste management, and emergency response. Chemical engineers should follow the biosafety level recommendations and regulations for their specific biological agent and activity or process.

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3 Biosecurity measures

In addition to biosafety measures, chemical engineers should also implement biosecurity measures, which are aimed at preventing unauthorized access, theft, loss, diversion, or intentional release of biological agents. Biosecurity measures include physical, personnel, and procedural security controls, such as locks, alarms, cameras, fences, access cards, background checks, codes of conduct, inventories, audits, and reporting systems. Chemical engineers should also adhere to the relevant biosecurity laws and policies, such as the Biological Weapons Convention, the Select Agent Regulations, and the Dual-Use Research of Concern guidelines.

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HARIHARAN V

Graduate Engineering Trainee at ISRO Propulsion complex (IPRC) | Chemical Engineer | passionate about design and innovation | Defence Aspirant
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Chemical engineers must balance the dual responsibilities of biosafety and biosecurity to protect both people and the environment from harmful biological agents. While biosafety focuses on safe handling practices, biosecurity extends to safeguarding against malicious misuse. Integrating advanced technologies such as biometric access controls and cybersecurity measures for digital data can further strengthen biosecurity. Additionally, fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness is crucial, as even the most robust systems can be compromised by human error or malintent. Compliance with international and national regulations not only ensures legal adherence but also promotes global collaboration in preventing biological threats.

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4 Biosafety and biosecurity indicators

To monitor the effectiveness and compliance of biosafety and biosecurity measures, chemical engineers should use biosafety and biosecurity indicators, which are measurable parameters that reflect the performance and outcomes of biosafety and biosecurity practices and policies. Some examples of biosafety and biosecurity indicators are the number and severity of incidents, accidents, or breaches; the frequency and quality of inspections, audits, or reviews; the level of awareness, knowledge, and skills of staff; the availability and functionality of equipment and facilities; and the degree of stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Chemical engineers should collect, analyze, and report biosafety and biosecurity indicators regularly and use them to identify gaps, strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

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Abel Moseme

Technical Services Specialist
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To monitor the effectiveness and compliance of biosafety and biosecurity measures, chemical engineers should use biosafety and biosecurity indicators, which are measurable parameters that reflect the performance and outcomes of biosafety and biosecurity practices and policies. Some examples of biosafety and biosecurity indicators are the number and severity of incidents, accidents, or breaches; the frequency and quality of inspections, audits, or reviews; the level of awareness, knowledge, and skills of staff; the availability and functionality of equipment and facilities; and the degree of stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Chemical engineers should collect, analyze, and report biosafety hazards

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5 Biosafety and biosecurity culture

Finally, to monitor biosafety and biosecurity risks, chemical engineers should foster a biosafety and biosecurity culture, which is a shared set of values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that support and promote biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace. A biosafety and biosecurity culture can be enhanced by providing clear and consistent leadership, communication, and feedback; establishing and enforcing policies, procedures, and standards; providing adequate resources, training, and incentives; encouraging reporting, learning, and improvement; and engaging and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders. A biosafety and biosecurity culture can help chemical engineers to be aware, responsible, and accountable for biosafety and biosecurity risks and to act accordingly.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Engr. Muhammad Husnain Arshad

Chemical Engineer | NEBOSH , IOSH & OSHA Certified |
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In chemical process engineering, monitoring biosafety and biosecurity is crucial to prevent accidental or intentional release of hazardous biological agents. Tools like real-time monitoring systems, access control, and inventory management software are essential. Additionally, integrating Quality Management Systems (QMS) with biosafety and biosecurity protocols ensures continuous improvement and compliance with regulatory standards. It's important to recognize that while technology aids in risk management, fostering a culture of safety and security among personnel is equally vital.

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What tools can you use to monitor biosafety and biosecurity risks in chemical engineering?

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1 Risk assessment

2 Biosafety levels

3 Biosecurity measures

4 Biosafety and biosecurity indicators

5 Biosafety and biosecurity culture

6 Here’s what else to consider

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