Gyeonggi-do Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory Receives 'Satisfactory' Triennial Revalidation for Biosafety Level 3 Facility

The Gyeonggi-do Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory has received a satisfactory evaluation in the triennial revalidation inspection of Biosafety Level 3 (BL3) facilities conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

Biosafety Level 3 facilities are designed to safely handle and diagnose pathogens that pose a high risk, by maintaining negative pressure inside the facility to prevent the exposure of dangerous pathogens to the outside. After the initial certification, the safety of the facility and its operational system must be revalidated every three years.

The Gyeonggi-do Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory currently operates two BL3 facilities. The BL3 facility in the first testing building conducts precision diagnostics for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and African swine fever (ASF). The BL3 facility in the second testing building is responsible for precision diagnostics of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

This triennial revalidation inspection targeted the BL3 facility in the second testing building, which specializes in diagnosing highly pathogenic avian influenza. Since April, the Gyeonggi-do Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory has undergone a document review—including laboratory management, facility operation records, and facility validation materials—as well as an on-site inspection that examined facility installation, operations, and air control systems.

Researchers at the Gyeonggi Provincial Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory are conducting experiments. Provided by Gyeonggi Province

The Gyeonggi-do Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory stated that securing the safety of the facility is particularly significant ahead of the winter season, when there is a sharp increase in highly pathogenic avian influenza cases.

Nam Younghee, Director of the Gyeonggi-do Animal Hygiene Testing Laboratory, said, "For the prompt diagnosis of disaster-type animal infectious diseases such as highly pathogenic avian influenza, not only precise diagnostic capabilities but also safe facility operation are essential." She added, "Having reconfirmed the safety of the biosafety level 3 facility ahead of the special quarantine measures to be launched from October, we will make every effort to maintain stable facility operations and a swift diagnostic system."

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