Biological hazards

Contact: Anja Vomberg (vomberg@kan.de)

Bioengineering activities specifically involving biological agents (e.g. bacteria or viruses) pose risks such as infections and allergies for workers. A comprehensive package of European standards focuses on measures such as technical and organisational procedures to prevent such risks. Tasks involving incidental contact with microorganisms, such as in composting plants or medical laboratories, are also subject to OSH-related standardization (for example by way of the development of measurement methods for the detection of certain biological agents). Standardization of safety in the laboratory, for example by standards governing fume cupboards, is also associated with this activity.

For further information on the subject, see:

• KANBrief 1/09: Anthrax & Co.: a controversial CEN document concerning biological safety
• KANBrief 4/07: Biological risks
• KANBrief 2/99: Microbiological safety cabinets
• KANBrief 1/99: Exposure to germs at the workplace - actinomycetes
• KANBrief 1/98: Biotechnology - From the research laboratory to large-scale production – The scope of the new package of standards for biotechnology