The Biosafety Branch was established in 2005 to account for all biosafety matters in a sustainable and organized manner. It aims to promote high standards of biosafety in the research and biomedical community, establish the framework and guidelines for biosafety training, promote links with the international biosafety community and prevent bioterrorism by controlling the use of high-risk biological agents. It is strategically set up under the Operations Group as it works closely with the Communicable Diseases Division and Preparedness & Response Division to facilitate implementation of containment measures in the event of laboratory accidents of public health significance.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) introduced the Biological Agents and Toxins Act in October 2005 to regulate the possession, use, import, transfer and transportation of biological agents and toxins that are known to be hazardous to human health. The legislation will provide for the safe practices and security in the handling of such agents and toxins.