ABSA International is pleased to announce the publication of ISO/TS 7446:2026 — “Implementation guidance for biorisk management for laboratories and other related organizations” —in January 2026.
This Technical Specification is a supplement to ISO 35001, offering practical, implementation-focused guidance. It employs a Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach, covering essential aspects across leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, and continual improvement. The Technical Specification emphasizes systems-based hazard identification and risk assessment, layered control selection (from elimination through engineering and administrative measures to PPE), documented control plans, workforce competence and training, clear communication and stakeholder engagement, and validated/enhanced precautions for high-biorisk activities. This guidance is broadly applicable across various settings, including laboratories, clinical environment, research facilities, production operations, and related field activities. We are proud to note that ABSA International members actively contributed to the drafting of this Technical Specification. For further details or assistance with implementation, please contact ABSA International (info@absa.org).
ISO 35001 Revision:
ABSA International is also actively supporting the revision of ISO 35001, “Biorisk management for laboratories and other related organizations”. The kickoff meeting for TC 212, WG5 took place on Friday, March 20, 2026. We anticipate the revised standard will be approved and published no later than November 2028.
