Health and Safety Services for GM users
Genetic modification involves the transfer of genetic material either in the form of DNA or RNA into a recipient organism by artificial means with the resulting organism capable of replicating and/or transferring the modification to other cells or organisms. The resulting organism is referred to as a genetically modified organism (GMO). Where the GMO is a micro-organism then the term genetically modified micro-organism is used.
If you undertake activity in which genetically modified organisms are cultured, stored, transported, destroyed, disposed of or used in any other way for which containment measures are required to limit contact with humans and the environment to ensure an appropriate level of safety, then the activity is regarded as a contained use activity. A risk assessment for the activity is needed which will involve a hazard analysis of the recipient organism, the gene of interest and any new hazards arising from combination.
If you are undertaking in vitro laboratory based research in either an academic or industrial biotechnology setting working with genetically modified micro-organisms (GMMs) using molecular biology techniques that require compliance to the Contained Use regulations and you need professional advice on health and safety risk management matters that protects the environment and human health, then this site is for you.
Free advice and reports
We offer a limited range of free generic hazard assessment reports for bacterial hosts and we provide free advice on certain topics.
On-line hazard assessment reports available
As a registered member of this site, you will have access to on-line hazard assessment reports for a broad range of viral vectors combined with gene inserts or genes of interest. For a sample listing of those vectors and genes available go to News. The on-line hazard assessment reports will provide a basis for you to fulfill your responsibilities under European Union EU Directive 98/81/EC.
You can register with us as either an annual member or as a pay as you go user. Annual members receive up to a maximum of 20 hazard assessment reports plus on-line technical advice and guidance.
Pay as you go members are able to access individual hazard assessment reports as required. Pay As You Go service is now available in Europe and Australasia.
For confirmation that your GMM is available on the database, please send an email to helpdesk@genetiq.co.uk describing your gene of interest and vector.
Biosafety and Biosecurity consultancy services
Our services are not limited to on-line support. We can provide bespoke consultancy advice on biosafety related matters and related regulations including training, quality assurance and audits. Contact us at info@genetiq.co.uk with your requirements.
For larger established industrial or academic settings, our work supplements that of your biosafety specialist and provides an independent reassurance of your risk management strategy.
We provide awareness raising sessions to schools and colleges on the safety implications of handling GMMs.
We can advise architects on the design and build of new laboratories to ensure that scientific safety is considered at the start of any new laboratory build thereby avoiding the potential for costly rebuilds or adaptations.