Lab worker wearing lab coat, safety goggles and using a pipette on a blue green background.

Biosecurity Addendum in Effect and Ongoing Awareness Updates

The Biosecurity Addendum to the Canadian Biosafety Standard, Third Edition (the Biosecurity Addendum) officially came into effect on January 5, 2026. Although it only applies to Containment Level 4 facilities, it outlines a range of physical and operational security measures that may be relevant for organizations operating Containment Level 2 or Containment Level 3 facilities.

Note that as a condition of your Risk Group 4 Pathogen and Toxin Licence, Containment Level 4 facilities must comply with the applicable requirements of the Canadian Biosafety Standard, Third Edition, including the Biosecurity Addendum. Failure to meet these requirements may result in compliance and enforcement actions, which can include but are not limited to, the issuance of a notice of non-compliance, modifications to the conditions of your licence, or refusal to renew your licence.

Throughout the year, the Centre for Biosecurity shares timely updates and advisories to regulated parties. These are informed by federal security partners such as the Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, to help facilities stay aware of evolving risks, trends, and threats that may impact biological materials, sensitive information, or operations.