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  • 08. Conspiracy Theories, Mis- and Disinformation

    Webinar

    Conspiracy Theories, Mis- and Disinformation is a course to help anyone who communicates about biosafety and biosecurity to understand the context of mis- and disinformation around laboratories and how to better respond in the moment. The course includes introductions to concepts, terminology, and the history of conspiracy theory and misleading information. Participants will learn strategies to identify, understand, and respond to conspiracy theories and mis- and disinformation. The course will include practical exercises and break out groups to develop skills in identification of and response to false information around laboratories.

  • Principles & Practices of Biosafety®

    Embassy Suites—Pittsburgh Downtown 535 Smithfield Street, Pittsburgh, PA, United States

    ABSA INTERNATIONAL Principles & Practices of Biosafety® July 9-14, 2023 Embassy Suites–Pittsburgh Downtown Pittsburgh, PA Principles & Practices of Biosafety® will introduce the essential elements of biosafety and provide extensive resource lists for use after the course. Interactive exercises will be used throughout to provide hands-on experience and to encourage networking and problem-solving among participants and instructors. Sessions begin at 8:00 am each day and end with a roundtable discussion between 5:15 and 5:30 pm with two coffee breaks and lunch provided.

  • 11. Large-scale Biosafety

    Webinar

    Large-scale Biosafety will review biosafety for work at large-scale, which the NIH rDNA Guidelines defines as >10L. The course will review Appendix K from GLSP to BSL-3 LS, with a focus on primary and secondary containment. It will review basic bioprocessing steps, such as fermentation/cell culture and purification technologies. Examples of classic and newer single use technologies will be provided. Pearls and pitfalls of the various technologies will be discussed, using various scenarios. The course will include a review of risk assessment techniques used for large scale bioprocesses and a discussion of large-scale related to vaccines, viral vectors, and recombinant proteins.

  • ABSA BBTC FORT COLLINS® AUGUST 7-11, 2023 FORT COLLINS, COLORADO

    Hilton Fort Collins 425 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, CO, United States

    The Biosafety and Biosecurity Training Course (BBTC®) ABSA BBTC Fort Collins® August 7-11, 2023 Hilton Fort Collins Fort Collins, Colorado Registration will be opening in early 2023 A WEEK LONG COURSE COVERING ANIMAL, GENERAL, AND PLANT BIOSAFETY AND BIOSECURITY The Biosafety and Biosecurity Training Course (BBTC®) was founded in 2004, by Dr. Robert (Bob) Ellis, Emeritus Professor at Colorado State University. In 2020, ABSA International and the BBTC partnership was formed. This course is designed for persons who are interested in the varying aspects of the responsibility of biosafety professionals. It is also suitable for persons [...]

  • 05. Molecular Biology 101

    Webinar

    Molecular Biology 101 is intended for those professionals that participate in protocol review, facilities planning, and other risk assessment activities but lack a basic understanding of molecular biology and techniques. Following this course, attendees will be able to do more than regurgitate facts and use the new understanding of the principles of molecular biology in various situations at their institution. This course will cover topics such as the chemistry of nucleic acids, DNA replication, RNA transcription, and protein translation, the Central Dogma of Biology, DNA cloning, transfection of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, restriction enzymes, and recombinant DNA lab methodologies (including PCR, DNA fingerprinting, sequencing, and detection protocols). While this course will not turn you into a molecular biologist, it will give you enough background information to understand the nature and manipulation of genetic material and hopefully unveil the mystery of deoxyribonucleic acid.

  • 12. Techniques and Tools for Conducting Relevant Literature Reviews

    Webinar

    Techniques and Tools for Conducting Relevant Literature Reviews will cover how to efficiently conduct high-impact research that can inform biosafety practices. The course will discuss the general purpose of a literature review, how to best organize the resources you collect, and techniques for synthesizing the literature. It will cover basic information on the kinds of scholarly texts available, where to search for information, citation best practices, and plagiarism avoidance. With many tools in the marketplace, this webinar will also provide an overview of reliable reference management tools to help curate resources and provide basic guidance on knowledge management tools to promote information retention over time.

  • 1V. Introduction to Biosafety in the Clinical Setting

    Webinar

    The clinical setting poses a different environment than research laboratories. This course provides foundations for applying biosafety concepts in the clinical setting. Topics covered include common issues and lessons learned pertaining to clinical facilities including pharmacies, laboratories, clinics, infusion areas, ORs, and waste disposal facilities; PPE, disinfection, risk assessments, and safety practices in the clinical setting; speaking biosafety to doctors, nursing staff, pharmacy staff, infection prevention and control, diagnostic microbiology lab personnel, and hospital EHS staff; applying NIH Guidelines and the BMBL to the clinical setting; gaps in oversight of research safety for clinical trials, and risk assessments for unconventional or highly specialized delivery mechanisms for biologics. The course will conclude with a focus on clinical trials including the role of an IRB and how it can overlap with an IBC; the process for investigational products to obtain FDA approval to be deemed as safe and effective therapeutics; and the evolving regulatory environment in the U.S. for biologics such as vaccines, regenerative medicines, and gene therapy. The course is designed to be highly interactive with discussions, surveys, and team exercises.

  • 2V. Introduction to the Science and Biosafety of Cell and Gene Therapy Clinical Trials

    Webinar

    The use of recombinant and synthetic nucleic acid molecules in clinical trials is growing at an explosive pace. This course is intended to introduce biosafety professionals to the science and biosafety of gene-based investigational products in clinical trials including gene-based vaccines, gene modified cellular products, gene therapy and gene editing. This course will provide an overview of molecular biology, virology and viral vectors. Participants will discuss risk assessments and best practices for dealing with risks associated with diverse types of biological hazards.

  • 06. Virus-based Gene Transfer Vectors

    Webinar

    Virus-based Gene Transfer Vectors is an intermediate course that will examine the molecules, processes, and techniques involved in recombinant gene expression. Participants will explore the technology of how viruses are converted into vector systems for the transfer of gene expression constructs. Common viral vector systems, including retroviruses, lentiviruses, adenoviruses, poxviruses, herpesviruses, alphaviruses, and baculoviruses will be discussed with an emphasis on the biosafety characteristics of the vectors derived from these viruses. This course is targeted for the biosafety professional who is not actively conducting laboratory research yet requires a basic understanding of recombinant DNA methodology.

  • 3V. When & Why Does Biosafety Need a Seat at the Plant Research Design Table?

    Webinar

    Plant Biosafety is a niche within the biosafety community. How to build and maintain a greenhouse, arthropod and seed processing program can be challenging for biosafety managers because there have not been many courses offered on this topic. This class offers the basics from head house to pathogen/arthropod containment greenhouse design. Plant research is the backbone of both genetically modified, disease resistance, growth enhancement, seed health and breeding of both academic and biotechnology research. Plant biosafety is a niche within biosafety that makes you ask – Do the engineers and project managers understand the need for and when to ask for biosafety input? This course will provide participants with an overview of designing greenhouses from headhouse, seed activities to arthropod containment using the APHIS and ACL containment guidelines. The course will offer a variety of advanced scenarios and interactive exercises that demonstrate the range of biological and other risks routinely encountered in plant research. Participants will be guided through strategies for identifying potential hazards, assessing the magnitude and extent of induced risks and cost, and developing effective control measures to protect the safety of workers, plants, and the environment. The course employs “real world” examples to improve understanding of greenhouse, arthropod and seed operations.

  • Safety for NonProfits Inc. and the Biosafety Professional

    Webinar

    Safety for NonProfits Inc. and the Biosafety Professional A free webinar Friday, September 22, 2023 2:00pm (CDT) Register Now Registration for the live webinar must be completed 1 business day prior to the start of the training. Registrations received after will receive access to the recording only. Thinking about providing your biosafety (or EHS) expertise to a non-profit charity organization or currently donating time and knowledge to a non-profit? Hesitant to volunteer without professional liability insurance or don’t know where expertise is needed? Now there is a way to do that important pro-bono work and be covered by [...]

  • 13. Maintaining Your ABSA Credentials: I have it, now how do I keep it?

    Webinar

    Maintaining Your ABSA Credentials: I have it, now how do I keep it? is a webinar designed for those who currently hold the ABSA International Registered Biosafety Professional (RBP) and/or Certified Biological Safety Professional (CBSP) credentials. The webinar will outline the re-credentialing process, review form options, and highlight the various ways to earn credentialing maintenance (CM) points, including tips on finding lower cost professional development opportunities. Presenters will review how and when approval is needed and explain how to complete the Application for Credentialing Maintenance Points form for an activity not already on the approved list of professional development opportunities. The webinar will provide ideas for tracking activities over the 5-year period, guidance on what records to save in case you are chosen for audit, and tips on avoiding common mistakes throughout the process. A brief tour of the relevant areas of the ABSA website will be shown and then there will be time for questions and answers.

  • 4V. IBC and IRE Basics

    Webinar

    IBC Basics is an introductory course on the function and administration of Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBCs) delivered by expert staff from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Science Policy (OSP). IBC Basics will promote the professional development of those associated with IBCs by providing an opportunity to learn about the role of NIH OSP, the content of the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant and Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules, and understand the range of biosafety oversight responsibilities that IBCs have under the NIH Guidelines. This course provides an overview and may be helpful for those new to the field or for those who are also interested in the Institutional Biosafety and Biosecurity Oversight Governance workshop.

  • 2023 Biosafety and Biosecurity Month

    ABSA International is proud to announce the 10th anniversary of Biosafety and Biosecurity Month in October 2023. Rather than a theme for 2023, we like to bring Biosafety and Biosecurity Month back to the core components of ethical research, transparency, training, engagement, and stewardship of biosafety and biosecurity. Use this month to shine the spotlight on training ideas, stewardship and engagement, how to foster positive relationships with the research community, or supporting responsible and ethical research through our profession. Show your innovation! Updates and additional materials for the event will be periodically posted to this webpage as they become [...]

  • 5V. Keeping it Going: Maintaining and Improving a Select Agent Program over the Long Term

    Webinar

    Keeping a select agent program going can be difficult, especially in the face of ever-changing regulatory requirements and limited resources. Established procedures may suddenly become unacceptable, interrupting research, and frustrating laboratorians. Likewise, a single unexpected adverse event can put an entire program at risk. Being prepared to deal with such changes and events is critical to maintaining a robust program. Anticipating future challenges can be even more advantageous, elevating a program from good to great. A proactive approach can minimize the impact of new requirements and reduce duration and frequency of crises sparked by sudden, unexpected requirements or events. This course will explore strategies for maintaining and improving an existing program, including how to anticipate and respond to new requirements. The focus will be on U.S. select agent requirements, although a small section on comparable requirements in the international community will be included. Strategies will be based on the instructors’ experience with their program with additional input solicited from class participants during open discussions. Topics will include select agent program history; effective oversight; efficiently meeting ongoing requirements; reporting, responding to, and analyzing incidents; suitability program case studies; inactivation requirements, including “failure” investigation; and inspection preparation and response. The course will consist of topical presentations followed by group discussions aimed at facilitating application of presented strategies to participants’ individual programs and providing a platform to capitalize on participants’ collective experience.

  • 66th Annual Biosafety and Biosecurity Hybrid Conference

    CHI Health Center 455 N. 10th Street, Omaha, NE, United States

    October 13-18, 2023 CHI Health Center Omaha, Nebraska Intensive professional development courses to educate and inspire Three full days of state-of-the-art keynotes, papers, and panels highlighting best practices and hands-on skills crucial for today’s biosafety and biosecurity professionals In-person exhibits showcasing the latest in laboratory biosafety and biosecurity products and services Invaluable networking opportunities to share and learn from other biosafety and biosecurity professionals The ABSA International Conference is the largest biosafety and biosecurity conference in the world! The conference will provide solutions to tackle your most challenging issues, present fascinating case studies, and showcase the latest developments in biosafety [...]

  • 6V. Selection and Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

    Webinar

    Recent infectious disease outbreaks highlighted the need for the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The guidance on use of appropriate PPE varies greatly and can often be contradicting and therefore confusing to the end user. Furthermore, availability of different PPE often varies depending on the situation and location. Selection of appropriate PPE should be based on a comprehensive risk assessment that takes in consideration the different hazards present, as well as the procedures/activities to be conducted. Often times, locations where PPE is needed vary as well, from a well-controlled laboratory environment to collection room or a field location, and even in a patient room setting. Each of these situations require staff to be able to perform a comprehensive risk assessment, often in a fast-evolving situation and with a minimal understanding of specifications associated with different PPE components available to them. This course will provide overview of different PPE options available; specifications associated with each option, and address a risk assessment process for selection of appropriate PPE for different environments. The examples will include some of the most common issues and considerations when selecting PPE such as supply chain issues as well as strategies to address behavioral concerns that may arise. In groups, participants will develop risk assessment for different scenarios, present their risk assessment to the class, and evaluate each other’s PPE selection based on their risk assessment. Instructors will guide participants through the process by providing critical feedback on the PPE features and selection process as they progress. The course will go through an effective risk assessment process which is critical for proper selection of appropriate PPE. The course is intended for those who want to be able to lead or aid in the selection of appropriate PPE in order to enhance both biosafety and biosecurity at their institution.

  • 14. The FBI’s Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Program and Safeguarding the Bioeconomy

    Webinar

    The FBI’s Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Program and Safeguarding the Bioeconomy webinar will demonstrate how the FBI’s WMD Program interfaces with biosafety officers. This information can be helpful especially as biosafety offices deal with the evolving threat that biotechnology can pose. With its rapid growth, the U.S. bioeconomy increasingly serves as a critical foundation for American competitiveness in a global environment. When it comes to security, biological threats have historically focused on emerging infectious diseases or the possibility of engineering a virus that could start a zombie apocalypse. As biology continues to converge with cyber, new security challenges will arise. This presentation will highlight the need to radically redefine what we consider biological and cyber threats.

  • 7V. Laboratory Facility Programming and Design Best Practices

    Webinar

    This course will offer guidance of key principles underlying the programming and design of research and diagnostics laboratories. It is intended for architects, designers, and biosafety professionals desiring an increased awareness of the complexity and challenges associated with designing a laboratory. Participants will be introduced to the laboratory design process as it relates to programming and pre-design, building zoning, operational efficiency, biosafety and biosecurity considerations, and flexible/expandable strategies. Participants will participate in guided discussions, develop diagrams to illustrate best practice concepts, and analyze existing plans with respect to the design principles under discussion.

  • 10V. Institutional Biosafety and Biosecurity – Enhancing Oversight through Effective Governance

    Webinar

    This course will discuss the importance of ensuring institutions have robust and comprehensive biosafety and biosecurity governance structures in place. Information will be provided about Federal activities related to strengthening biosafety and biosecurity practices and oversight. Participants will discuss and share tools and best practices that institutions can employ to enhance their biosafety and biosecurity programs.Participants will break into small groups to discuss a case study involving a biosafety incident occurring at an institution subject to the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines), which illustrates the importance of institutional biosafety oversight and how inadequate local oversight can result in significant problems. Participants should ideally have a working knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of institutions, Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBCs), and Institutional Review Entities (IREs) for biosafety and biosecurity oversight of research subject to the NIH Guidelines and the U.S. Government Policy for Institutional Oversight of Life Sciences Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC).

  • 01. What is Biosecurity? Why is it Important?

    Webinar

    In order to mitigate biorisks, entities must integrate biosafety and biosecurity to effectively identify, assess, control, evaluate, and develop informed plans to mitigate risks inherent to their activities. In this webinar we will discuss the importance of biosecurity as a part of a robust biorisk management program. We will define biosecurity, explore the importance of biosecurity, provide employee awareness considerations, and address the basics of developing integrated biosecurity plans. We will also discuss considerations for special communities, such as laboratory animals and clinical laboratory services.

  • 03. Prevent and Manage Amplicon Contamination in Laboratories

    Webinar

    Preventing and Managing Amplicon Contamination in the Laboratory is a webinar that will help biosafety professionals, researchers, laboratory personnel, and other health and safety professionals to understand amplicon contamination, how to mitigate contamination events, and how to prevent future contamination. The webinar will discuss the lab processes that produce nucleic acid amplicons, their impacts to human health, the signs and symptoms of amplicon contamination, and how they can impact laboratory work or research. At the conclusion, participants will be able to develop strategies to manage and prevent amplicon contamination and understand the importance of this topic for biosafety professionals.

  • 05. Biosafety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): How to Live in Harmony

    Webinar

    Biosafety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): How to Live in Harmony is a webinar that will help anyone who works in a GMP/quality environment that also must consider biosafety requirements. The webinar will discuss what GMP is, why it is important, and how to harmonize GMP and biosafety requirements and regulations. At the conclusion, participants will understand what GMP is, why it is critical for manufacturing facilities, and how to ensure biocontainment is maintained while also ensuring product safety. The webinar will be led by a biosafety professional with over 5 years’ experience in a GMP/manufacturing environment.

  • 18th CDC International Symposium on Biosafety

    Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA, United States

    ABSA International is partnering with Eagleson Institute and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to bring you the 18th CDC International Symposium on Biosafety Keynote addresses: James Connelly, CEO My Green Lab Renee Horton, PhD, Armstrong Flight Research Center, NASA. New this year: Tours: Emory Primate Center Field Research Station CDC Emergency Operations Center, Teaching Lab, & Museum New format: Next level interactive format, with presentations in the morning followed by deep dive workshops in the afternoon. Day One: The Modern Workplace Learn about modern design and technologies, then get hands-on with highly interactive workshops on waste management, sustainable [...]

  • SOLD OUT: Principles & Practices of Biosafety®

    Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown 601 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA, United States

    ABSA INTERNATIONAL Principles & Practices of Biosafety® March 10-15, 2024 Embassy Suites San Diego Bay Downtown San Diego, CA Registration for this offering is currently closed. If you would like to add your name to the waitlist for early notification for the next session, please contact the ABSA Office at info@absa.org. Having your name on the waitlist does NOT guarantee you a seat in the next offering. Download the Flyer A COMPREHENSIVE, INTERACTIVE 5-DAY COURSE Principles & Practices of Biosafety® will introduce the essential elements of biosafety and provide extensive resource lists for use after the course. [...]

  • 12. PR & Communication Essentials for Biosafety Professionals

    Webinar

    PR Essentials for Biosafety Professionals is a webinar for anyone who communicates with different audiences about biosafety. The course will provide a foundation in public relations practices including practical tips on how to: effectively communicate key biosafety messages to media and others within your organization; craft messages for different audiences, execute media training tactics and effectively position biosafety and yourself as the biosafety SME (Subject Matter Expert) within an organization. The webinar will highlight specific public relations techniques and media strategies, provide real-life scenarios, Dos and Don’ts for working with media and offer real-time discussions to apply lessons in practice-and-critique drills. At the end of this two-hour course, participants will have a baseline understanding of the importance of key message development, how to effectively work with members of the media (indu stry, trade, consumer) and how to leverage biosafety and subject matter expertise within an organization. The webinar will be led by communications experts with over 25 years’ experience developing and sharing messages with a wide variety of target audiences, including media.

  • 04. Battling Professional Burnout by Taking Control of Your Biosafety Career

    Webinar

    Professional “burnout” arises from constant exposure to emotional and interpersonal stress and has been defined by the psychological community as exhibiting dimensions of exhaustion, cynicism, and inefficacy. While traditional means of addressing burnout include interventions such as rest, proper diet, and techniques for relaxation, an emerging body of knowledge is also identifying positive engagement as a promising option for consideration. The dimensions of engagement include renewed dedication, absorption, and vigor. In other words, reframing the way individuals approach their work and establishing strategies for gaining control of their careers can be a powerful means of addressing burnout. In this presentation, four practicing and credentialed biosafety professionals will share their collective experiences on how enhanced control over and a better understanding of the role of biosafety’s role can lead to a more professionally rewarding career. Strategies and examples of the techniques that have been used to achieve these goals will be described, and ample time will be allocated for questions and discussion.

  • 1V. Personnel Security in Laboratory Biosecurity Programs

    Webinar

    Personnel security is comprised of security measures focused on people and behaviors rather than typical physical barriers approaches. Personnel security can be thought as the "administrative controls" in any advanced security program. This course will teach administration, management, and researchers the basic principles of threat assessment and introduce participants to the role of comprehensive personnel security in a laboratory biosecurity programs. The course is intended to give participants a basic tool-kit that will allow them to implement successful comprehensive insider threat mitigation strategies using personnel security approaches at their home institutes and to convey concepts in personnel security to their colleagues. Participants will be presented with relevant case studies in order to learn about relevant threats in the biomedical and health sectors. Participants will learn about all aspects of personnel security including: suitability, reliability, peer and self reporting strategies, threat assessment, OPSEC, INFOSEC, and an introduction to elicitation, manipulation and surveillance awareness. These concepts will be put in to practice in interactive, live role-playing scenarios that include interview tactics, deception detection elicitation and surveillance detection. Regulatory issues relevant to implementation of personnel security management programs, in particular changes to the Select Agent Regulations pertaining to Tier 1 agents, will also be discussed.

  • 3V. Using the Incident Command System for Responding to Biosecurity Incidents

    Webinar

    The Incident Command System (ICS) is the national gold standard for responding to any size incident in the United States. President George W. Bush mandated its use for all Federal Agencies and strongly recommended its use at all levels of government and within private organizations. The authors of this course have a significant amount of ICS experience, including the highest level of qualification in ICS: Type 1 Incident Commander. They have successfully used ICS in real-life laboratory incidents and Biosecurity exercises. The instructors intend to give the participants an overview of ICS and enough information to incorporate the system into their plans, training, and exercises. This will enable participants to begin maximizing response effectiveness and efficiency during a real laboratory incident.

  • 2V. Tactical Implementation of Biosecurity Principles: An Advanced, Scenario-Driven Course on Risk and Threat Management Programs

    Webinar

    A distinguishing factor between security and biosecurity programs is the fact that biosecurity programs are focused on assets that are biological in nature. This brings forth unique distinctions in implementing risk- and threat-based approaches to prevent the release, loss, or theft of these assets. This advanced workshop will challenge attendees to fully analyze a single biosecurity driven scenario through a series of risk and threat management decision-making. Participants will learn the principles of biosecurity, which set it apart from traditional security, by applying tactical methodology to analysis of a real-world biosecurity case study. The outcomes of this intensive course will be identification of biosecurity-specific risk and threats, their corresponding prioritization against a mitigation plan, approaches for blending these inputs for comprehensive biorisk management, and finally, an integrated biosecurity plan. Participants will leave the course with tools that will be applicable to their host institutions for future engagements building effective integrated biosecurity plans against scenarios.

  • 07. Fundamentals of Microbiology and Infectious Disease

    Webinar

    Fundamentals of Microbiology and Infectious Disease is intended for those professionals that participate in protocol review, facilities planning, and any other risk assessment activities, but are unsure as to the actual nature of the disease risks of microbiological agents. Biological safety and risk assessment will not be covered in this course. The proposed topics will cover infectious agents, virulence factors, pathogenicities, host-microbe interactions, susceptibility, modes of transmission, and the changes seen in the microbial world. If you don’t know the difference between a TCID50, PFU, or ID50; or why HBV is stable in dried blood and HIV is not; or why influenza is an inhalation hazard; or why public health officials advocate flu shots each year—then this course is for you.

  • 4V. Using One Health to Advance Biosecurity

    Webinar

    Agricultural biosecurity is a critical component of the One Health concept. It includes various strategies designed to safeguard the health and welfare of agriculturally important animals, the environment, and society in general by preventing infections and their spread among these species, humans, and nontarget species, including wildlife. Increased movement of live animals and their products, as well as the growing trend towards intensification and expansion of animal production systems, represents a significant risk to food supply chains, public health, and the economy due to the possible emergence and spread of exotic animal pests and pathogens, zoonotic diseases, and foodborne agents. Effective management and control of these challenging and complex risks requires application of core principles and cohesive strategies that emphasize sustainability through improved husbandry and health management practices.

  • 3rd International Biosecurity Virtual Symposium

    Virtual

    May 7-8, 2024 The Symposium will bring together biosecurity professionals from a wide range of disciplines with varying expertise to share their experiences and knowledge on diverse biosecurity topics. The Symposium will offer attendees an opportunity to learn the latest in biosecurity and have thought-provoking conversations about real-world biosecurity issues, concerns, and scenarios. Who should attend? Biosafety and biosecurity professionals, defense contractors, emergency responders, government employees, law enforcement personnel, security personnel, policymakers, regulators, researchers, students, and other interested parties. Symposium Highlights Virtual professional development courses to sharpen biosecurity knowledge and skills. Two full days of presentations, papers, panels, and exciting [...]

  • 06. Working with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (HPAIV)

    Webinar

    Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) has recently become widespread globally in animals. Human infections are rare but are reported consistently. Therefore, work with HPAIV may encompass a wide variety of activities including lab-based research, animal work, field studies, and handling of positive diagnostic specimens. The goal of this workshop is to enable the audience to understand the basics of HPAIV, the risk associated with handling the virus or positive samples, and mitigations for handling it. An introduction to the basic biology of HPAIV including a brief description of pathobiology including modes of transmission and exposure routes among different species. A summary of what is known about transmission of the virus to and from wild birds. What is known about transmission from avian species to mammals will be covered from both a virus, exposure route, and disease pathogenesis perspective. Biosafety and biosecurity for handing HPAIV in the lab, animal research and field specimens will be described.

  • 08. Concepts of Virology

    Webinar

    Concepts of Virology will briefly review gene expression in eukaryotes and examine several concepts of virology. Characteristics of different viral families will be presented as well as general replication strategies employed by different viruses. Mechanisms of viral pathogenesis and strategies for antiviral intervention will also be explored. Participants should have a familiarity with molecular biology. The course is targeted to the biosafety professional who does not actively conduct laboratory research but would like to gain a basic knowledge of virology.

  • Preventing and Treating Biological Exposures: An Occupational Health Colloquium

    Hotel Murano Broadway, Tacoma, WA, United States

    Colloquium topics include: Newly updated Lentiviral Vector Guidelines Presented for the first time with primary author Gary Fujimoto, this program will discuss new issues associated with lentiviral and retroviral vectors along with updated recommendations for post-exposure prophylaxis. With the FDA approvals for multiple vector-based therapies, the number of individuals working with these agents is rapidly expanding. While these technologies generally involve replication-deficient agents, the potential hazards associated with transgene incorporation into one’s genome need to be conveyed to all those working with these vectors. TB Expert Group Mycobacterium Tuberculosis has been a leading cause of death throughout much of [...]

  • 17. Export Compliance for the Biosafety Professional

    Webinar

    Export Compliance for the Biosafety Professional is designed to help biosafety officers and other professionals understand how U.S. export control laws and regulations intersect with the roles and responsibilities of a biosafety administrator. The webinar will discuss the regulatory framework governing exports from the United States, how to navigate export compliance challenges in academic and medical research environments, and best practices for handling biological exports while maintaining safety and security. 

  • 14. APHIS 101: Arthropod and Plant Research Permits

    Webinar

    APHIS 101: Arthropod and Plant Research Permits is a webinar for those that work with plant pathogens, arthropods, or with genetically modified plants and insects. This course will provide participants with an overview of APHIS (Animal Plant Health Inspection Services) eFile including BRS (Biotechnology Regulatory Services), PPQ (Plant Protection and Quarantine), and VS (Veterinary Services) permitting. It will also review EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) labeling and wildlife permits and address intrastate and interstate movement of permitted organisms. The course will offer various scenarios and interactive exercises that show the process of applying for and acquiring permits. Participants will be guided through permit strategies.

  • 16. Gain-of-Function Research: Biosafety vs. Biosecurity

    Webinar

    Gain-of-function research: biosafety v. biosecurity is a webinar designed for biosafety/biosecurity professionals and communicators to understand “gain-of-function" research that involves the creation of novel pathogens with pandemic potential. The goal is to develop an understanding and the tools to explain what gain-of-function research is; communicate why it is an important policy issue; and dispel myths about these and other studies that may constitute “dual-use research of concern”. The webinar will discuss the history and current debate, policy initiatives currently under consideration, and common myths and misunderstandings about these kinds of studies. A particular focus will be the difference between gain-of-function as a biosafety issue, compared to its biosecurity implications. At the conclusion, participants will grasp the policy, ethics, and history of gain-of-function research. The webinar will be led by a biosecurity expert with over 15 years’ experience studying, teaching on, and crafting policy for biosecurity for a variety of national and international groups.

  • 13. Animal Handler Risk Assessment

    Webinar

    This introductory webinar will provide an overview of the hazards associated with animal work and focus on the questions that should be asked in a risk assessment to elucidate the information needed to build a complete risk assessment profile for work conducted with animals and with animal derived tissues and specimens. The webinar will cover strategies for implementing the risk assessment, including how and when to involve other specialists, and integrating the process into the overall occupational health program. Circumstances where additional information is needed to complete the risk assessment will be identified; such situations will require follow-up interviews and in some cases site visits by the biosafety professional. Translation of the risk assessment into recommendations for risk mitigation will be discussed.

  • Principles & Practices of Biosafety® – Denver, CO

    Embassy Suites–Denver Downton Convention Center 1420 Stout Street, Denver, CO, United States

    ABSA INTERNATIONAL Principles & Practices of Biosafety® July 8-12, 2024 Embassy Suites—Denver Downtown Convention Center Denver, CO Registration coming soon. Download the Flyer A COMPREHENSIVE, INTERACTIVE 5-DAY COURSE Principles & Practices of Biosafety® will introduce the essential elements of biosafety and provide extensive resource lists for use after the course. Interactive exercises will be used throughout to provide hands-on experience and to encourage networking and problem-solving among participants and instructors. Sessions begin at 8:00 am each day and end with a roundtable discussion between 5:15 and 5:30 pm with two coffee breaks and lunch provided. OBJECTIVES [...]

  • 15. Q&A Infectious Substance Shipping

    Webinar

    Q&A Infectious Substance Shipping webinar provides an opportunity for participants to learn about recent changes to international regulations and interact with a panel of shipping experts. Regulatory experts from organizations to be determined and have been invited along with a packaging expert from Saf-T-Pak/Labelmaster to discuss hazardous material shipping. Participants will be afforded an opportunity to submit questions for the panel to review in advance. As many questions as possible will be discussed during the webinar. Questions not addressed will be collated, answered by the experts, and provided to all participants along with a transcript of the session.

  • 09. Large-scale Biosafety

    Webinar

    Large-scale Biosafety will review biosafety for work at large-scale, which the NIH rDNA Guidelines defines as >10L. The course will review Appendix K from GLSP to BSL-3 LS, with a focus on primary and secondary containment. It will review basic bioprocessing steps, such as fermentation/cell culture and purification technologies. Examples of classic and newer single use technologies will be provided. Pearls and pitfalls of the various technologies will be discussed, using various scenarios. The course will include a review of risk assessment techniques used for large scale bioprocesses and a discussion of large-scale related to vaccines, viral vectors, and recombinant proteins.

  • 2024 ABSA Biosafety and Biosecurity Training Course (BBTC®) Fort Collins

    Hilton Fort Collins 425 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, CO, United States

    August 5-9, 2024 Hilton Fort Collins Fort Collins, Colorado A WEEK-LONG COURSE COVERING ANIMAL, GENERAL, AND PLANT BIOSAFETY AND BIOSECURITY Download the course flyer (PDF)The Biosafety and Biosecurity Training Course (BBTC®) is designed for persons who are interested in the varying aspects of the responsibility of biosafety professionals. It is also suitable for persons who supervise biosafety professionals and for those who will benefit from additional knowledge of biosafety as a complement to their primary responsibilities. The week-long training will address preparations for audits and inspections, BSL-2/BSL-3 building design and operations, clinical and public health lab biosafety, prion disease research, [...]

  • 10. Molecular Biology 101

    Webinar

    Molecular Biology 101 is intended for those professionals that participate in protocol review, facilities planning, and other risk assessment activities but lack a basic understanding of molecular biology and techniques. Following this course, attendees will be able to do more than regurgitate facts and use the new understanding of the principles of molecular biology in various situations at their institution. This course will cover topics such as the chemistry of nucleic acids, DNA replication, RNA transcription, and protein translation, the Central Dogma of Biology, DNA cloning, transfection of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, restriction enzymes, and recombinant DNA lab methodologies (including PCR, DNA fingerprinting, sequencing, and detection protocols). While this course will not turn you into a molecular biologist, it will give you enough background information to understand the nature and manipulation of genetic material and hopefully unveil the mystery of deoxyribonucleic acid.

  • 5V. Animal Research for Biosafety Professionals – An Introduction

    Webinar

    Animal Research has contributed to major scientific advances in biomedical, veterinary, and environmental sciences and in public health. However, these efforts often pose significant risks to the health and safety of research and facility staff due to the wide range of species, complex experimental procedures and equipment, and facility hazards that are involved. Balancing optimal worker safety and animal welfare with research objectives yields the best results but requires a solid understanding of how animal programs are managed and an ability to identify and mitigate inherent risks. This course provides a thorough introduction to routine hazards commonly encountered in animal programs that utilize rodents, small animals, nonhuman primates, aquatics, and agricultural species, with a primary focus on identifying and managing biological, chemical, radiological, and physical hazards. Topics include assessment and management of animal program hazards; universal regulations, guidelines, and quality standards that apply to animal research; duties and responsibilities of key program personnel; local oversight systems; best practices that enhance the quality of animal care; and strategies for biosafety professionals to develop and maintain effective partnerships with program staff and institutional animal care and use committee members. Opportunities will be provided to apply new knowledge and skills through interactive group activities and problem-solving sessions. The instructors are experienced laboratory animal veterinarians who are actively involved in the management, oversight, and evaluation of animal care and use programs. The primary target audience for this course are biosafety and general safety professionals with limited experience in the animal research environment.

  • 11. Virus-based Gene Transfer Vectors

    Webinar

    Virus-based Gene Transfer Vectors is an intermediate course that will examine the molecules, processes, and techniques involved in recombinant gene expression. Participants will explore the technology of how viruses are converted into vector systems for the transfer of gene expression constructs. Common viral vector systems, including retroviruses, lentiviruses, adenoviruses, poxviruses, herpesviruses, alphaviruses, and baculoviruses will be discussed with an emphasis on the biosafety characteristics of the vectors derived from these viruses. This course is targeted for the biosafety professional who is not actively conducting laboratory research yet requires a basic understanding of recombinant DNA methodology.

  • 3V. Introduction to Biosafety in the Clinical Setting

    Webinar

    The clinical setting poses a different environment than research laboratories. This course provides foundations for applying biosafety concepts in the clinical setting. Course topics include common issues and lessons learned pertaining to clinical facilities including pharmacies, laboratories, clinics, infusion areas, ORs, and waste disposal facilities; PPE, disinfection, risk assessments, and safety practices in the clinical setting; speaking biosafety to doctors, nursing staff, pharmacy staff, infection prevention and control, diagnostic microbiology lab personnel, and hospital EHS staff; applying NIH Guidelines and the BMBL to the clinical setting; gaps in oversight of research safety for clinical trials, and risk assessments for unconventional or highly specialized delivery mechanisms for biologics. The course will conclude with a focus on clinical trials including the role of an IRB and how it can overlap with an IBC; the process for investigational products to obtain FDA approval to be deemed as safe and effective therapeutics; and the evolving regulatory environment in the U.S. for biologics such as vaccines, regenerative medicines, and gene therapy. The course is designed to be highly interactive with discussions, surveys, and group exercises.

  • 4V. Bio-Hazardous Drugs

    Webinar

    The anticipated implementation of United States Pharmacopeia (USP) 800 in healthcare created a new resolve to conduct thorough risk assessments of healthcare formularies. The role of this assessment was to identify the hazards posed by these drugs, to evaluate the exposure risks associated with these hazards, and to determine the potential health consequences of both acute and chronic exposure. Most healthcare facilities that conducted these risk assessments utilized a risk matrix that incorporated criteria commonly used in toxicology to evaluate exposure to chemicals. As the pharmaceutical industry quickly turns to novel biologics to treat and/or correct disease, a risk assessment of the biological hazards associated with these novel biologics is warranted. This course will provide information on these biologics; explore the known and anticipated biological properties of each; discuss the potential these biologics have to cause infections, to be shed, to contaminate the environment, and to be transmitted to others; and will cover the pertinent controls needed to contain these biologics, to prevent inadvertent exposure to these materials, to remove them from the environment, and to ensure staff and patients are appropriately educated.

  • October is Biosafety and Biosecurity Month!

    ABSA International is proud to announce the 11th anniversary of Biosafety and Biosecurity Month in October 2024. Use this month to shine the spotlight on training ideas, stewardship and engagement, how to foster positive relationships within the research community, or supporting responsible and ethical research through our profession.