This document describes a generalized risk assessment process that can be used in biological laboratory settings regardless of the economic or organizational capability of that laboratory. Specifically, this documents aims to: describe the laboratory biosafety and biosecurity risk assessment as well as that process’s conceptual framework; provided detailed guidance and suggested methodologies for conducting such a risk assessment; and present practical risk assessment strategies in the context of realistic scenarios. This document is aimed at personnel who actively handle biological agents, toxins, and other valuable laboratory material. However, it may be helpful for any individuals interested in learning more about laboratory risk assessment, especially within the context of their own laboratory. As of January 2022, this guidance document appears to only be available in English.

This document was authored by the International Biological Threat Reduction program at Sandia National Laboratories in collaboration with the International Federation of Biosafety Association (IFBA). Sandia National Laboratories is a defense research contractor for the United States government that is owned by a private company. Sandia National Laboratories has provided other open-access tools for biological laboratory risk assessment, such as the Biorisk Assessment Models (BioRAMs), that are included within this library. IFBA is a network of regional and national biosafety associations from around the world that have a mandate in biosafety, biosecurity and biorisk management.