Have you ever considered that your research may provide knowledge, information, materials, products, or technologies that could be misused for harmful purposes? Do you know when a license is required to publish your results? Would you notice when a vial containing an infectious high-risk pathogen is missing?
These examples demonstrate the importance of good practices to secure and account for pathogens and sensitive technologies from unauthorized access, theft, misuse or intentional release.
This page provides you with links to tools and guidelines to support you in assessing the dual-use potential and other biosecurity related sensitivities of your research, such as export control.
Biosecurity pillars
Biosecurity focuses on protecting biological agents and on the knowledge and technology required for this. Biosecurity can be divided into eight pillars.
Biosecurity movie
This film provides an introduction into eight pillars of good practice for biosecurity, that are important when implementing biosecurity control measures.
Dual-Use Quickscan
Dual-Use Quickscan is a scan that allows you to identify potential dual-use aspects of your research.
Code of Conduct
This code of conduct for researchers is aimed at raising awareness of the possible risks of the misuse of knowledge.
Export control
Strict rules apply to the export of dual-use goods to countries outside the European Union, including a permit.
Information
Various national and international biosecurity information sources, including links, documents and biosecurity tools.
Rules of security
10 golden rules of security to promote awareness for working safely and securely with biological agents.
Want to know more about biosecurity and dual use? Or do you have questions about biosecurity and dual use in your research or laboratory? Contact the Biorisk Management Advisor (for example the biological safety officer (BVF), consulting microbiologists, occupational hygienists or safety personnel) of your organization.