The concept of “Biohazrd”

When the word “biohazard” was initially used, it was interpreted narrowly as concerning the accidental problems in biomedical laboratories. Namely its meaning is almost the same as that of the word “laboratory-acquired infection.” But people have gradually come to realize the need to consider the environmental pollution and the harm to local residents resulting from the release of pathogens outside bio facilities. Besides, as novel organisms (genetically modified organisms) have appeared more frequently through the promotion and development of biotechnology in recent years, we have become obliged to think that the concept of “biohazard” contains the health problem and the disruption of ecosystem that have some relation to these organisms. In short, the concept of “biohazard” has been enlarged with the elapse of time and the change of society. This tendency is perceived not only in our country but widely in the world.