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ISTR and ERM Process Safety Webinars

ISTR and ERM are hosting a series of webinars on Process Safety for Laboratories.

The six-part webinar series is designed for professionals working in life sciences and laboratory environments. This program introduces essential process safety principles and their practical application to high-containment and research facilities. Each session focuses on a critical aspect of laboratory safety, from chemical compatibility and hazard analysis to emergency response and cybersecurity.

You can register for all of the sessions at the ERM website.

The webinar topics are:

  1. Introduction to Process Safety in Life Sciences Chemical Compatibility and Storage
  2. Applying Process Hazard Analysis to Lab Facilities: HAZOP/SWIFT 
  3. Safety Critical Systems: Automated systems and IEC 61511
  4. Cybersecurity for Operational Technology (OT)/ Industry Automated Control Systems (IACS) in Laboratory Settings: Safeguarding Automation and Control System
  5. Machinery Safety in Laboratories: PUWER, Guarding, and Human Interaction
  6. The Critical Window: Emergency Response in the First 20 minutes

         



ISTR and International Institute of Risk and Safety Management sign Memorandum of Understanding

ISTR has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) at the IIRSM President's Reception 2025.  The MoU recognises the expertise and leadership of ISTR within the UK and internationally as the UK Biosafety Association (UKBSA).

ISTR Chair Elect Adam Stevenson said: “This represents a great opportunity for ISTR to collaborate with IIRSM to enhance safety standards related to technology and research through shared expertise, joint initiatives, and the promotion of best practices in risk management and health and safety.”

IIRSM President Rosie Russell said: “This MoU strengthens both organisations by bringing the strategic risk thinking of IIRSM together with ISTR’s understanding of research, development and emerging risks. I am looking forward to evolving this relationship and furthering the management of cutting-edge risks that affect our organisations and communities.”


ISTR  UKBSA Gains International Recognition as IFBA Member

ISTR, incorporating the UK Biosafety Association (UKBSA), is proud to announce its approval as a member of IFBA – the International Federation of Biosafety Associations. This milestone brings international recognition to ISTR's long-standing commitment to biosafety leadership and sharing best practices.

Membership of IFBA will enable ISTR to collaborate with global partners, share best practices, and contribute to international biosafety initiatives, furthering its mission to drive continuous improvements in technology and research health and safety.

          


Serving safety professionals for over 25 years

The Institute serves safety professionals in technology and research including education, industry, government agencies and consultancy.

The aim of the Institute is to enhance the knowledge, competence and professional development of its members through networking, accreditation, knowledge exchange, workshops and symposia, communication with regulators and partnerships with other safety organisations.


Membership is open to safety professionals and Associate Membership is available to anyone whose knowledge and experience do not qualify them as Members but who can show they have a sufficient interest in the activities of ISTR.

The ISTR Executive Committee, made up of elected and co-opted members, manage the affairs of the Institute.

Learn more about ISTR

Upcoming events

    • 19 May 2026
    • 10:30 - 15:30
    • University of Liverpool North Campus
    Register

     

    Northern Biological Safety Officers Meeting


     
    19th May 2026

     

    Clarke Room 507 a/b

    Cedar House

    University of Liverpool North Campus,

    Ashton Street,

    Liverpool, L3 5PS


    Meeting Agenda

     Coffee / tea available from 10.30

    Meeting starts at 11.00

    Morning Session 11.00 – 12.30

     11.00 - 11.15

    Welcome & Introductions

    Angela Elliott 

     11.15 - 11.45 Dry Heat Sterilisers vs Autoclaves, 

    Experiences and Lessons Learned

    Aude Aumeunier - University of Glasgow

     11.45 - 12.15

    TEXT and the new EN 12469:2025

    Mark Beviss - Contained Air Solutions







    SANDWICH LUNCH APPROX 12.30

    Afternoon Session 13.30 – 15.30

    13.13 - 14.00

    Autoclave validation of waste loads

    Adam Pugh - LTE

    14.00 - 14.30 ISTR BSG update
    Autumn Symposium
    News and future events

    Jon Gawn, Marian Blokpoel

    14.30 - 15.30 Open discussion on biosafety issues
    Suggested topics for discussion from HASNET etc
    • Training for management personnel handling animals and insects in CL3 Management
    • Maintenance at CL3 
    • Fumigation of CL3 rooms: do you fumigate before PPM / servicing?
    • Classification of Cell Lines: RA v’s supplier guidance
    • Boundary between deliberate biological agent activity and incidental / generic activity and whether CBA notification would be required
    • Work related stress and pressures – implication for biosafety management and staff in the current climate
    • Occupational Health service provisions
    • Discussion on recent regulatory visits & themes
    • Other issues / questions for group discussion? 
       Other business?
       Next meeting?



















    Meeting is scheduled to end no later than 15.30


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Membership Information

The benefits of being a Member or Associate include Members’ rates at ISTR symposia and access to presentations given the symposia, being able to attend our exclusive Members’ only skills workshop and being part of the ISTR discussion forum.