Review: methods of monitoring for process micro-organisms in biotechnology

Biotechnology encompasses the use of micro-organisms and other biological agents in a range of processes, including the production of pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, enzymes, food and drink. This review looks at the sources of occupational exposure by describing the way in which process micro-organisms, some of which could be hazardous to health, can be released into the workplace or the environment. It also examines current practices, monitoring strategies and procedures used to monitor for release of micro-organisms during biotechnology processes and looks forward to methods that may be of use in the future.