Use of imported biologicals policy

Policy

Intent and objectives

This policy has been produced in response to the requirements of the Quarantine Act 1908 and related regulations.

Policy provisions

The importation of all biological substances requires quarantine approval. Biological substances cover a wide range of animal (including human), plant and microbial products for research, food, commercial and personal use. The products range from canned meat to genetically manipulated DNA.

The potential consequences of allowing imported organisms to be released into the environment and the possibility of exposing humans, native animals and livestock to exotic diseases necessitates the implementation of strict controls and codes of practice. This Biologicals Use and Disposal Policy has been developed by the RMIT AQIS Committee to ensure that all research and teaching activities at RMIT are carried out within the statutory requirements of the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service.

Failure to do so will result in the suspension of any activity which fails to comply with the requirements. All users of Imported Biologicals at RMIT must operate according to the Biologicals Use and Disposal Program.

Biological risks

All imported biological materials and their derivatives are to be considered as having the same risk potential as the original source material and must be treated accordingly. In vivo procedures represent a considerably higher quarantine risk.

Laboratory animals

Typical laboratory animals include rodents, rabbits, guinea pigs, castrated hamsters and amphibians and other species as determined by AQIS.

Other (non-laboratory) animals

Cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, dogs, cats, birds, fish and any other species, excluding rabbits, which are used within Australia as a food or fibre producing animal.

All other vertebrates unless classified as a laboratory animal.

Insects and other invertebrates which can harbour or transmit exotic pathogens.

Other aspects

It is important that the term "Imported Biological" is not regarded as the complete description for materials so designated. They can also include clinical wastes, toxic wastes, dangerous goods, infectious materials, radioactive materials and several other categories. Each category may be covered by its own statutory regulations.

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