SAPO (Animal Pathogens)
Since April 2015, the HSE is responsible for the licensing and regulation of SAPO (Specified Animal Pathogen Order 2008).
The HSE has produced 'Guidance for licence holders on the containment and control of specified animal pathogens'.
The safe handling of specified animal pathogens is a broad term and covers processes and procedures, but must include all activities critical to containment, arising from, or in connection with specified animal pathogens. This can include but is not limited to use (eg propagation, concentration, manipulation), receipt, storage, transport, waste, and use of plant and equipment.
Those who wish to possess, work with a specified animal pathogen or any carrier in which they know such a pathogen is present in the University require a licence to do so.
Guidance for licence holders on the containment and control of specified animal pathogens explains the requirements of SAPO licences and how these requirements can be met.
The University holds a SAPO licence, administered by the Safety Office. The licence can be varied to include new SAPO agents- currently there are only 3 species on the University licence.
If you wish to store or undertake any work on biological agents listed on Schedule 1 of the SAPO order –weblink https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2008/944/schedule/1/made) then please direct your enquiry to: Dr Simon Hoer in the Safety Office. Please also discuss your risk assessment with your BSO and as early as possible.
Import
April 2020 - The HSE has updated its information regarding bringing in specified animal pathogens into GB. Import is only possible if you are on the University SAPO licence. You can find out about the new rules and processes that must be followed.
The link also provides the English General Licence that you must attach to your consignment to import a Specified Animal Pathogen into England.
The HSE website will be updated in due course.
If you are not on the University SAPO licence, you must not attempt to import specified animal pathogens. Please direct your enquiries to Dr Simon Hoer at the University Safety Office who administers the licence.