General Session: Operating details for Select Agent research programs that meet institutional, government and community safety requirements

As biocontainment-level research becomes more pervasive, institutions are being pressed to demonstrate that their programs are both productive and safe. The shortfall of workers trained to operate the new facilities coming online spotlights the need for ingrained processes and systems for safe operations. Richard Henkel hilights the recurring challenges that arise when developing Select Agent biosafety programs, and solutions that envision future research requirements. He identifies the facility design elements that simplify and those that hinder safe operations. Finally Richard describes training, monitoring, and reporting best practices that create a culture of safety and transparency.

• Dr. Richard Henkel , Chief of Policy and Compliance - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention