Release of biological substances
Biological substances are widely present in nature and in various economic sectors. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi and internal human parasites. Some of these substances can be harmful to human health.
Exposure to biological substances can be intentional (e.g. a terrorist attack with a biological weapon) or accidental (e.g. an incident in a biological laboratory). In such cases, a biological substance ends up outside a controlled environment, with no specific measures to limit human contact with the substance. There may then be immediate consequences on people, animals or plants, or consequences that only appear after some time.
Risks and causes
Causes
Consequences
What can you do?
BEFORE
There are no specific recommendations for this risk. Follow our general tips before, during and after emergency situations.
DURING
- Move away from the source of the dangerous substances. Go to a safe place.
- Call 112. Follow the recommendations of the authorities or emergency services.
- Keep your distance from other people.
- Regularly wash your hands.
- Wear a face mask.
AFTER
Contact your GP.
Impact and probability
The figures relating to probability and impact describe an extreme release of biological substances. The BNRA theoretically describes such a scenario as follows:
- There is a spread of a substance which poses a high risk to human health. No preventive medication or treatment is available.
- The biological substance spreads over an area of more than 1 km² for a period of more than one day. The substances spreads in an urban area, with numerous buildings and infrastructure.
How should you interpret these results?
Within the BNRA, experts assessed three scenarios for each risk: considerable, major or extreme. On each page, you will find the results of the scenario with the highest score based on the combination of likelihood and impact. This does not mean that this scenario will occur or is the most likely. Read more here about how to correctly interpret the results.
Probability
Very weak
Human impact
Strong
Societal impact
Moderate
Environmental impact
Very weak
Financial impact
Strong
What do the authorities do?
The FPS Employment proposes a framework and guidelines for employers working with biological substances. They are required to comply with preventive measures and protect the health of their workers. Find out more here.
On the site biosecurite.be, you will find all the information you need regarding safety measures for biological laboratories.
A CBRNe centre of expertise was set up within the National Crisis Center in 2018. It helps partners to make CBRNe emergency plans operational, offers support in crisis management, and participates in training for intervention services.
In the event of a terrorist attack involving intentional exposure to biological substances, the CBRN(e) terrorism emergency plan is triggered.