The designated person at an organization handling select agents who is personally accountable for the implementation of all rules pertaining to and the ongoing security of select agents.

The responsibilities associated with this position include filing the required site-specific security assessment and response plans; inspecting laboratories; training all individuals who work with select agents; keeping thorough records of access to agents; and establishing protocols for report loss or theft of agents. The Responsible Official (RO) must also pass a thorough FBI background check.

The RO personally faces a potential $250,000 fine and five years in prison for willful oversights and violations.