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Biosecurity in Scandinavia.
Kristian H Bork1, Vibeke Halkjaer-Knudsen, John-Erik Stig Hansen
1The Centre for Biological Defence, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark. khb@ssi.dk
Summary
Nordic biosecurity measures show partial external security but weak internal controls. Pathogen accountability is low, necessitating a legal framework and national biosecurity authorities for improved safety.
Area of Science:
- Biosafety and Biosecurity
- Public Health Security
- Risk Management in Laboratories
Background:
- Absence of formalized security standards and legislation in Nordic countries.
- Need to assess current biosecurity recognition and implementation levels.
- Importance of internal and external security measures in laboratory settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the recognition and implementation of biosecurity measures in Nordic countries.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing security practices in laboratories.
- To identify gaps in biosecurity protocols and recommend improvements.
Main Methods:
- A broad combined biosafety and biosecurity questionnaire survey across Nordic countries.
- A focused on-site audit of 22 facilities (94 laboratories) in Denmark.
- Analysis of internal and external security measures, insider access, and pathogen inventory management.
Main Results:
- External security measures were partially implemented, while internal security received limited attention.
- Insider background checks and access controls were rarely conducted.
- 81% of pathogen-containing facilities lacked routine, centralized pathogen accounting.
- Significant gaps identified in establishing comprehensive biosecurity.
Conclusions:
- A need exists for a robust legal framework aligned with international standards.
- Establishment of governmental national biosecurity authorities with combined expertise is recommended.
- Development and adoption of a "Good Biosecurity Practice" code are crucial for enhancing laboratory security.
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