What are the MBRMS? 

The Minimum Biorisk Management Standards for laboratories working with foot-and-mouth disease virus (MBRMS) describe a set of precautions to be taken by laboratories (including animal facilities) that work on or perform diagnostics for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in EU member nations, to prevent an escape of virus. These standards define a set of conditions and requirements for the approval and operation of laboratories handling infectious FMD virus (FMDV) in vitro and in vivo. 

The MBRMS serve as a practical guide to improved biocontainment, providing detailed advice on all aspects to be considered in the design and running of facilities, sample handling, staff, training, access, decommissioning, and waste management. While for some facilities there is an obligation to meet the standards (Tier C and D facilities), for others they can be utilised as a referenceable tool for self-improvement, informing on best practices for biocontainment. 

Maintenance of the MBRMS and related activities are undertaken by the Special Committee for Biorisk Management (SCBRM). The SCBRM is comprised of active experts on FMD and biocontainment. Their obligations include regular review and updating of the MBRMS, provision of specific guidance to Member countries (upon request) on specific technical issues relating to the application of the MBRMS, and advising EuFMD on best practices for biocontainment in laboratories working with other FAST diseases.   

EuFMD offers a free online training course on the MBRMS for staff of Tier C and D facilities in EU member nations, however this course may also be beneficial for anyone wishing to improve their knowledge on biocontainment best practices.