Finnish Biosecurity Network

The Finnish Biosecurity Network promotes biosecurity and related operating practices in microbiological laboratories operating in Finland. The network was established by the Centre for Biothreat Preparedness. 

The steering group of the Biosecurity Network has representatives of the key actors in the industries using the BSL-3 laboratories, including the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, the Finnish Food Authority, HUSLAB, the Finnish Defence Forces, the University of Helsinki, the University of Turku and Turku University Hospital.

Objectives and tasks of the Finnish Biosecurity Network

  • promoting biosecurity and ensuring biosafety
  • charting the Finnish agents in the field
  • voluntary cross auditing of BSL-3 laboratories
  • promoting the implementation of the CWA 15793 Laboratory Biorisk Management standard
  • harmonising laboratory guidelines with regard to biosecurity risk management
  • checking work risk assessments
  • providing training, possibly also including a training module in university and vocational education
  • possible research cooperation and organisation of seminars
  • sharing good practices and consulting, mutual assistance.

The founding and management group of the Finnish Biosecurity Network

Mika Salminen (Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare), Chair
Hannimari Kallio-Kokko (HUSLAB), Secretary
Heidi Hemmilä (Finnish Defence Forces)
Anita Huovilainen (Finnish Food Authority)
Anna Katz (Finnish Defence Forces)
Paula Kinnunen (Finnish Defence Forces)
Tiina Nokireki (Finnish Food Authority)
Kirsti Pelkola (Finnish Food Authority)
Susanna Sissonen (Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare)
Hanna Soini (Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare)
Eveliina Tarkka (HUSLAB)
Elina Tonteri (Finnish Defence Forces)
Olli Vapalahti (University of Helsinki)
Laura Kakkola (University of Turku and Turku University Hospital)

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