by Chris Royse & Barbara Johnson
In recent years, increasing questions have arisen regarding the adequacy of and need for the implementation of a security program in biomedical institutes and facilities working with and storing pathogens. Most of the concern has been focused on facilities working with and storing select agents and BSL-4 pathogens. In some instances, increased security, protective measures, and regulations have been promulgated and implemented as a result of 1) criminal activity by animal rights activists, 2) the necessity to protect intellectual rights/information, patent material/processes and business sensitive information, and 3) recognition of the potential for individuals or organized groups to obtain biological pathogens for criminal/terrorist use…
