This involves controlled goods such as microbial or other biological agents (living organisms, including viruses or infectious material derived therefrom), toxins, and related equipment and technology that may be used in the manufacture of biological and toxin weapons under the Non-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction Act (Act 87 of 1993) of the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC). Biological warfare agents can cause diseases or death in humans, animals, or plants.
Activities that fall under this legislation:
- Import, export, re-export, transit (including trans-shipment), possession, development, manufacture, production, acquisition in any manner, use, operation, stockpiling, maintenance, transport, disposal, sale, and retention of biological weapons or controlled goods that may be used for the manufacture of biological and toxin weapons.
- Equipment capable of handling biological materials includes:
- Complete biological containment facilities at Biosafety Level 3 or 4 (BSL 3 or 4).
- Major components that can be used to build a functional BSL 3 or 4 facility, such as specific filters, effluent decontamination systems, fermenters, incubators, autoclaves, freeze-drying, spray-drying or milling equipment, biological safety cabinets or isolators, aerosol challenge testing chambers.
Government Gazette No. 4978 of 24 June 2024 details exceptions that include:
- Any goods in the form of a vaccine or toxoid
- Botulinum toxins and Conotoxins
Requirements:
- A person in control of any activity involving controlled goods or who has controlled goods in their possession or custody or under their control must register online with the South African Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction.
- This includes all BSL 3 and BSL 4 facilities. The registration is valid for two years.
- Apply for permits when controlled goods are manufactured, used to provide services, exported, or transported.
Please register and apply via the Non-proliferation Council Online System
Please consult the South African Council for the Non-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction's website for detailed information on the permits issued: http://non-proliferation.thedtic.gov.za/registration-and-permit-procedure/permits/
Additional Information:
