Containment Facility.

Following the recommendation of the ad hoc EMBO committee on rDNA, the Council of EMBL decided at its meeting on 27 November 1975 that research on rDNA should be carried out at the Laboratory. The original plan for cell biology was modified and a new special laboratory was constructed to house the high-risk facilities which conformed to the stringent specifications (later somewhat relaxed) of the German authorities of the Zentrale Kommission für biologische Sicherheit (ZKBS). H.M. Darlow of the Microbiological Research Establishment, Porton, was adviser on equipment, and the architects were KA-Plannungs GMBH.

Building and equipment.

Folder H.156. Correspondence and papers on all aspects of building: advice from colleagues, proposed use of Porton facilities, costings, planning and space allocation, working group meetings, equipment, 1974-1977.

Folder H.157. Architect's plans, 1976.

Folder H.158. Correspondence and papers on German guidelines for rDNA research, 1977.

Folder H.159. Correspondence and papers on changes to high-risk laboratory required to conform with German guidelines, and on insurance, 1978-1979.

Folder H.160. Correspondence and papers on equipment, especially safety cabinets, filters, fermentors, 1976-1980.