Biosafety program management
From: Public Health Agency of Canada
As of March 26, 2026, the Public Health Agency of Canada amended the Human Pathogens and Toxins Act.
Learn more about the new provisions coming into force immediately.
Overview
This guideline provides comprehensive guidance on how to develop, implement, and manage a biosafety program in facilities that handle and store human and terrestrial animal pathogens. The guideline outlines the steps essential to the development and execution of a comprehensive biosafety program, which includes planning, implementing, reviewing, and improving the program. Use this guideline in conjunction with the Canadian Biosafety Standard.
Who this guide is for
- Pathogen and Toxin Licence holders
- Biological safety officers
- Personnel in regulated facilities
In this guide
- Preface
- Abbreviations and acronyms
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Plan a biosafety program
- 3. Implement the biosafety program
- 4. Ongoing improvement of the biosafety program
- 5. Glossary
- 6. References
View complete guide
Download PDF (6.23 MB, 63 pages)
Details and history
Published: March 31, 2023
For assistance
Contact the Public Health Agency of Canada if you need assistance:
Phone: 1-613-957-1779
Email: pathogens.pathogenes@phac-aspc.gc.ca
Our service hours are Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm (eastern time). We're closed on statutory holidays.
Service standards
We aim to respond to email within 2 business days. If we can't answer your question right away, we will acknowledge receipt.
Related services
- Apply for a Pathogen and Toxin Licence
- Apply for an animal pathogen import permit (Canadian Food Inspection Agency)
Related guides and help
- Canadian Biosafety Standard
- Canadian Biosafety Handbook
- Pathogen Safety Data Sheets (PSDS)
- Pathogen Risk Assessment Template
Related acts and regulations
- Health of Animals Act
- Health of Animals Regulations
- Human Pathogens and Toxins Act
- Human Pathogens and Toxins Regulations
Related programs