Research involving Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

What is a GMO and who are the OGTR?

The Application Process

• Exempt
• Notifiable Low Risk Dealings (NLRD)
• Dealing Not involving Intentional Release (DNIR)
• Dealing involving Intentional Release (DIR)
• Annual Reporting

Standard Operating Procedures

The Monash University Biosafety Committee have developed some simple guidelines covering areas that researchers need to consider when conducting research activities involving genetically modified organisms.

These guidelines should be considered when answering the relevant questions during the application process.

The documents can be found here. 

Responsibilities

• Organisations
• Head of Schools or Departments
• Biosafety Officers
• Research Staff
• Penalties

Facilities

• Certification of facilities
• Variations to Certification
• Annual inspection of facilities

Other Useful Resources

The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator has a large amount of information on their website including:

Guidlines for:

• PC1 Laboratories
• PC2 Laboratories
• PC2 Animal Facilities
• PC2 Insectories
• PC2 Cold Rooms/Warm Rooms
• PC2 Plant House
• Storage and Dispoal of NLRDs
• Transport of GMOs

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory has a great video on "Working safely in a Class II Biological Safety Cabinet" available online