BSP role and place within the organisation

Who is the BSP?

• A researcher that also fulfills the requirements mandated by the regulations …
• A clinical laboratory manager …
• A senior technician …
• A full time person with training in biological sciences …

Do each one of them have a clear idea of their tasks? Have they the appropriate skills to fulfill their job?

Who appoints the BSP?

It is crucial that senior management recognizes the need and importance of the BSP and a biosafety policy and program for the organization. For this program to be successful, the BSP needs full support and the necessary resources.

To whom does the BSP report?

The BSP need to have a reporting line high within the management structure and has to be able to maintain independence of opinion.

A "Professional" is … an individual recognized as possessing specific knowledge of a particular discipline. Who possesses recognized academic preparation, has related work experience, has mastered and applies a recognized body of knowledge in his/her field. The professional adheres to a code of professional conduct is acknowledged by his/her peers as a professional , typically will hold a certificate or license recognizing his/her stature .

The Biosafety Professional (BSP)¹

• Is instrumental in the development and implementation of the biosafety policy of the organization according to national and international rules, regulations and best practices that include the intentional handling of all biological organisms/materials whether they are genetically modified or not
• The BSP:
• • is appointed by senior management
  • reports to the responsible senior manager
  • must maintain an independent position
  • is the competent person
• Is the point of contact for biosafety, internally² and externally
• Should have close liaison with Health Safety and Environment management and others³

¹ Alternative names: Biosafety Advisor, Manager, Coordinator, Officer
² For example, if there is a Biosafety Committee, the BSP must be a member
³ this does not mean that the BSP must be part of the Health Safety and Environment (HSE) structure, but the activities of the BSP and HSE must be coordinated