ChABSA, the Chesapeake Area Biological Safety Association, is an incorporated, non-profit organization that is an affiliate of the American Biological Safety Association (ABSA) established in 1984.
ChABSA was established in 1987 by local area members of ABSA with a similar interest in the safety of research using microorganisms and recombinant DNA. The organization benefits from the unique knowledge base found in the MD-DC-VA region, which is host to many universities, federal agencies and biotechnology related businesses of all sizes
ChABSA members include biosafety officers, researchers, teachers, corporate, academic, and government employees. Anyone interested in learning more about biosafety issues is welcome to join.
ChABSA is dedicated to expanding biological safety awareness and reducing the potential for occupational illness and adverse environmental impact from infectious agents or biologically derived materials.
ChABSA fosters and promotes professional and public awareness of biological safety through effective communication. This has become increasingly important in a decade where the use of biological agents or products by terrorists has become a reality.
ChABSA participates in the development of national and international biological safety standards, guidelines, and regulations.
ChABSA interacts with ABSA to help advance biological safety as a scientific discipline and to maintain standards for biological safety professionals.
ChABSA Official Bylaws