OPEN LETTER TO EPA CONTRACTORS AND GRANTEES ON BIOSAFETY STEWARDSHIP As a result of a series of recent laboratory safety and security incidents that were reported at U.S. government facilities in the Summer of 2014, the White House directed federal departments and agencies to review laboratory biosafety and biosecurity best practices and protocols, as well as complete a sweep of our facilities to ensure that Biological Select Agents and Toxins (BSAT) and other infectious or toxic materials are appropriately accounted for and stored. EPA completed a sweep of all EPA laboratory facilities during September 2014. No unregistered BSAT materials were found during this event. EPA is now encouraging all state, public, university or private laboratories, with which we partner, to participate in similar enhanced laboratory safety activities. Promoting safe and secure practices in laboratory facilities protects workers and the public, and prevents potential damage to plant and animal health. Examples of enhanced laboratory safety activities may include, but are not limited to: · Sweep areas used to store human, animal or plant infectious agents or toxins, especially areas containing historical collections to ensure that no unregistered Biological Select Agents or Toxins (BSAT) are present; · Review procedures for biosafety, biosecurity, and inventory management; · Brainstorm activities with laboratory leadership and employees to enhance the facility biosafety culture; · Conduct facility biosafety training sessions; and · Complete safety assessments or mock emergency response activities. We encourage your participation in this important biosecurity effort. Contact your organization’s biosafety/biosecurity officer or committee for resources and information on implementing these activities. EPA Points of Contact: USEPA Office of Homeland Security Sharon White
[email protected] Cayce Parrish
[email protected]