At the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, we are dedicated to fostering a robust safety culture that ensures the well-being of our staff, visitors, and the environment. As part of this commitment, the Safety Office plays a pivotal role in supporting the Institute’s Biosafety Biosecurity Programme, underscoring our theme: “Building a Safety Culture for All.”

Policy Development and Implementation

We have an established Safety Office, manned by certified Biorisk management professionals, which is responsible for developing, reviewing, and updating safety policies and procedures. This includes establishing guidelines for the proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, as well as ensuring compliance with national and international biosafety and biosecurity regulations.

Training and Education

A cornerstone of our efforts is the continuous education and training of staff, students, and visiting scientists and interns. We conduct regular training sessions on biosafety and biosecurity practices, emergency response procedures, and the correct use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). These sessions are designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of our personnel, fostering a culture of safety awareness and responsibility.

Risk Assessment and Management

Staff of the Institute, through authorized officers and Principal Investigators of research projects, conduct thorough biorisk assessments to identify potential hazards associated with our research activities. By evaluating the likelihood and impact of these risks, we develop and implement strategies to mitigate them. This proactive approach helps prevent accidents and ensures a safe working environment.

Incident Response and Investigation

In the event of an incident, there are trained officers that lead the response efforts. We coordinate emergency response actions, provide medical assistance if needed, and conduct detailed investigations to determine the root cause of reported incidents. The findings of incidents, near misses and accidents are used to improve safety protocols and prevent future occurrences.

Inspection and Monitoring

Regular inspections and monitoring are crucial to maintaining a safe working environment. The Health and Safety Committee conducts routine assessments and inspections of laboratory practices, equipment, and facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards. Any non-compliance issues are addressed promptly, and corrective actions are implemented. Safety audits are also scheduled and performed periodically in all levels of our research and diagnostic laboratories.

The Institute’s Biosafety and Biosecurity Programme

Our Biosafety and Biosecurity Programme is integral to the Institute’s mission of advancing medical research while protecting the health of our researchers and the community. This programme, which is well supported by the Institute Management, functions through various key initiatives:

• Facility Design and Maintenance

We ensure that all research facilities are designed and maintained according to biosafety and biosecurity standards. This includes proper ventilation systems, secure storage for hazardous materials, and containment measures to prevent accidental release of pathogens.

• Biosafety Level (BSL) Compliance

The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research operates at various Biosafety Levels (BSL) depending on the nature of the research. We ensure that all laboratories adhere to the required BSL standards, including appropriate PPE, decontamination procedures, and access controls.

• Pathogen Accountability and Security

We implement stringent measures to account for and secure all pathogens used in research. This includes inventory management systems of cold storage areas, restricted access to sensitive materials, and regular audits to ensure compliance with biosecurity regulations.

• Waste Management

Proper disposal of biological and chemical waste is critical to maintaining a safe environment and protecting communities that share the environment with us. Waste management in the NMIMR is supervised by the Safety Office which oversees the collection, treatment, and disposal of waste, ensuring that all procedures comply with environmental and safety regulations. Staff who manage waste are trained in proper procedures and the assessment of risk. The Institute is equipped with a large capacity high performance incinerator for the final disposal of waste.

• Collaboration and Communication

Effective communication and collaboration are vital to the success of our Biosafety and Biosecurity Programme. The Safety Office, the Health and Safety Committee and the Biorisk Management committee works closely with researchers, facility managers, and external regulatory bodies to ensure that safety protocols are understood and followed. We also provide clear and timely communication in the event of safety concerns or incidents.

Promoting the Culture of Safety

At the heart of our efforts is the theme “Building a safety culture for all.” We believe that safety is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of every member of the Institute. Our Biosafety Biosecurity Programme hinges on some key principles:

Leadership and Commitment: Our management team demonstrates a clear commitment to safety by allocating resources, supporting training initiatives, and fostering an environment where safety is a priority.

Empowerment and Accountability: We empower our staff to take ownership of safety practices and hold themselves and others accountable. This includes encouraging the reporting of safety concerns, participating in safety committees, and recognizing individuals and teams who demonstrate exemplary safety practices.

Continuous Improvement: We regularly review and update our safety protocols, incorporate feedback from staff, and stay abreast of the latest developments in biosafety and biosecurity. This commitment to improvement ensures that our safety practices remain effective and relevant.

Engagement and Involvement: We organize safety activities, workshops, drills and seminars to raise awareness and encourage active participation. By involving everyone in the conversation, we create a sense of shared responsibility and collective effort.