Nod to technology advances in regulations on genetically modified organisms

From 1 October 2014, new regulations, Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 2014, have been introduced to take account of advances in technology and consolidate changes to the original 2000 regulations.

The 2014 regulations also incorporate changes to the provisions related to containment measures, notification and administrative arrangements. In addition, the language and layout of the regulations have been brought up to date and simplified.

The HSE has also published updated guidance on the regulations. It covers the key requirements of:

• carrying out the risk assessment;

• classifying the contained use work;

• notifying to the competent authority;

• applying the relevant control measures; and

• accident reporting.

The guidance also includes improved advice on significant changes, the genetic modification safety committee, and how the regulations interact with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).

www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l29.htm