Abstract
A growing awareness in the microbiological research and policy communities centers on the need to increase the protection of dangerous biological agents from theft. However, existing security literature and regulatory requirements do not present a comprehensive approach or clear model for biosecurity, nor do they wholly recognize the operational issues within laboratory environments. The modern laboratory operating environment needs to be defined by both biosafety and biosecurity considerations. In addition to being a component of the operating environment, biosafety can serve as a model for biosecurity. Both of these paradigms should be implemented in a graded manner, with increased protection based on the results of a risk assessment.
This article proposes a preliminary framework for assessing biosecurity considerations and provides examples that address specific biological materials. The bio can be divided into several fundamental steps: (1) assessing the materials based on their weaponization potential and potential consequences, (2) assessing the potential adversaries, and (3) analyzing security scenarios. The results of the risk assessment form the foundation for risk management and the design of a biosecurity program. By prioritizing risks, the assessment provides a rational basis for allocating scarce security resources.