National Biocontainment Training Center
Abstract
Scientific investigations, product development, and response to threats of endemic diseases and emerging pathogens are all undertaken in modern research biocontainment laboratories to reduce the risk of infection and lessen the impact of naturally occurring or man-made pathogens to humankind. There is, however, a risk that these activities could contribute to increase the potential exposure of individual scientists and technical staff, as well as surrounding communities, to dangerous infectious diseases if proper precautions are not taken and safe practices are not utilized in laboratories where this work is undertaken. The threat is perhaps greatest within the international laboratory community where these dangerous pathogens may be routinely manipulated and investigated under less than ideal conditions by individuals who may lack adequate training or experience. Historically, this work was concentrated in a few research or governmental facilities where appropriate biocontainment existed and where a limited number of highly trained investigators conducted the research. Today, the investigation of emerging infectious diseases, the development of novel products to diagnose these infections, prevent infection and treat those who have become ill, has become a global enterprise. Unfortunately, some of the individuals and their parent organizations attempting to conduct this work do not have in place adequate facilities, training or administrative oversight to ensure that this important research and development is undertaken in the safest possible fashion, or that the products under development are evaluated safely.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA567639
Entities
People
- James Leduc
Organizations
- University of Texas Medical Branch