Occupational and environmental safety the UK legislative framework

The introduction of the modern biotechnology of genetic modification (genetic manipulation or recombinant DNA techniques) in the last two decades has generated some concern. This highlights the need to ensure that what are sometimes seen as the special hazards from the organisms used in biotechnology are adequately assessed and that the risks are controlled. 

The approach taken to the assessment and control of industrial hazards is enshrined within legislation in many countries (see chapters 1, 3, 4 and 5). The traditional applications of biotechnology have usually been within the scope of general health and safety law with specific legislation for 

Many of the recommendations of the OECD have formed the basis of the European Directives on Genetic Modification. The European Commission has adopted two directives concerning genetic modification work.  

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