Question reference: S6W-24691
- Asked by: Dr. Sandesh Gulhane, MSP for Glasgow, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 19 January 2024 Registered interest
-
Current status: Answered by Jenni Minto on 30 January 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what measures it has put in place to eliminate the possibility of a so-called "lab leak" from virology research in Scotland.
Answer
The Scottish Government has no functions in relation to biosafety in virology laboratories, this is a matter for the UK Government. Under COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) legislation, employers must minimise the risk to laboratory staff working with biological agents. COSHH is enforced by the UK HSE (Health and Safety Executive) and police counter-terror / NaCTSO (National Counter Terrorism Security Office) partners. Strict risk assessments and robust safety controls in medical and biological laboratories, in line with COSHH and HSE biosafety laboratory guidance, guarantee safe and secure working practices including preventing unintentional release of biological agents.