The SECB commissions external studies and expert reports on specific topics. These studies and reports contribute to improving biosafety.

Summary biorisk register (2011): The biorisk register was developed in order to quantify biological risks resulting from activities using genetically modified and pathogenic organisms in contained systems. A similar register already exists for chemical risks. An analogous register for biological risks is intended to identify possible hazards to humans and the environment and compare them to other anthropogenic risks. Possible emission pathways out of the contained system were identified for three organisms, and the effects calculated. Comparison with the example of an ammonia store shows that the greatest possible extent of damage to the affected population, and thus also the risk, is greater than of the risk from the organisms investigated in the study. We conclude that although severe damage caused by incidents involving microorganisms is possible, the biological risks for the population and the environment remain within an acceptable limit and in fact tend to be lower than comparable chemical risks. Handling pathogenic organisms, in the SECB’s opinion, primarily poses a risk to employees.

A method for differentiating between DNA of live vs. dead micro-organisms (2010): In laboratories working with micro-organisms, regular investigations are conducted to monitor the safety measures adopted. Microbial contamination of equipment and surfaces is detected using wipe samples which are tested for the presence of specific DNA. In this context it is important to be able to differentiate between DNA of live vs. dead cells and organisms. The methods used until now mostly require a cultivation step. A method using propidium monoazide (PMA), which only permeates dead cells, is described in the literature. The Cantonal Laboratory of Basel-Stadt, with financial support from the SECB, has adapted this method to Staphylococcus aureus as a model organism.

Detection method for Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) in soil (2009): The Bolle di Magadino region in the canton of Ticino is regularly flooded. These conditions favour the apparition of mosquitoes (Aedes vexans and Aedes sticticus). The region is therefore regularly treated with Vectobac, an insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) as active ingredient, a bacteria that produces toxins lethal for mosquitoes. The SECB has given its consent to the use of Vectobac, provided it be accompanied by long-term monitoring. With financial support from the SECB, the cantonal microbiology institute of Bellinzona (Istituto Cantonale di Microbiologia) has now developed a fast and specific method for the detection and quantification of Bti in soil.

Ecological impacts of genetically modified crops (2006) (pdf): We can now look back on 10 years of experience worldwide in the cultivation of genetically modified crops. The SECB commissioned the Swiss Federal Research Station for Agroecology and Agriculture, Agroscope Reckenholz-Tänikon, to summarize and discuss the scientific data on the possible ecological impact of genetically modified crops, published in peer-reviewed journals. The study focuses on insect-resistant maize and herbicide-tolerant varieties of soybean and oilseed rape. It primarily reflects the authors' own opinions.

Lists of organisms

These lists serve to classify organisms and biological containment systems according to the risk that they pose to human health and the environment. Account is taken of existing lists, notably those issued by the EU. The lists of organisms are published by FOEN with assistance from the SECB and other agencies.