Release of genetically altered organisms

Back in 1983, for example, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight concluded that one of the major risks associated with the release of genetically altered organisms was not necessarily the releases themselves, but our inability and failure to make risk assessments. Four years later, we still haven t developed adequate standards for risk assessment... 

Autoimmunity. Autoimmune diseases are disorders of immune regulation in which several different factors (e.g. viral, genetic, hormonal, environmental) may each play a role. Autoimmune diseases may belong to any of the four Coombs and Cell classifications of hypersensitivity and include the production of autoantibodies, destructive inflammatory cell infiltrates in various organs, and deposition of immune complexes in vascular beds. Chemically induced autoimmunity may result from any of several possible mechanisms. These include the alteration or release of autoantigens, or the cross-reaction of the chemical with autoantigens, or alternatively a direct effect on the immune system via lymphocytes or macrophages (60). 

From the responsible safety official s perspective, any hazardous waste release that could alter the environment or impact the health and safety of employees in any way is a major concern. The specifics of the safety engineer s concern lie in the acute and chronic toxicity to organisms, bioconcentration, biomagnification, genetic change potential, etiology, pathways, change in climate or habitat, extinction, persistence, esthetics such as visual impact, and, most importantly, the impact on the health and safety of employees. 

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