​Public Health Preparedness and Response (PHPR) Committee 

The APHL Public Health Preparedness and Response (PHPR) Committee is dedicated to enhancing the nation's public health capabilities in the face of emergencies, disasters, and infectious disease outbreaks. Our committee brings together experts, professionals, and stakeholders from various fields to collaborate on strategies, resources, and best practices that strengthen our collective ability to respond effectively to public health threats.

The APHL Public Health Preparedness and Response (PHPR) Committee serves as technical experts to advise the Board and association on all-hazards laboratory preparedness for, and response to, public health emergencies, natural disasters and emerging threats as they relate to issues affecting the membership. Key activities for the committee include: 

  1. Promoting maintenance of laboratory capability and capacity to respond to all-hazard threats
  2. Coordinating across the organization during response to public health emergencies
  3. Identifying future risks and developing proactive strategies to strengthen the public health laboratory system
  4. Guiding evaluations of new and emerging technologies
  5. Establishing and maintaining relationships and outreach efforts with key partners

Our Mission

Our mission is clear: to promote collaboration, innovation, and excellence in public health preparedness and response. By fostering a community of professionals who are dedicated to strengthening the nation's resilience to health threats, we aim to contribute to a safer and healthier future for all.

What We Do 

  • Sharing Knowledge: We facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise among our members, providing a platform for discussions, case studies, and the dissemination of the latest research and advancements in the field.
  • Developing Guidelines: Our committee works on developing and updating guidelines, protocols, and standards that serve as the foundation for effective public health preparedness and response strategies.
  • Advocacy: We advocate for policies and resources that support public health preparedness and response efforts at local, state, and national levels.
  • Training and Capacity Building: We collaborate with partners to develop training programs and resources that enhance the skills and capabilities of public health professionals in the area of preparedness and response.
  • Partnerships: We actively engage with other organizations, agencies, and stakeholders to foster partnerships that contribute to a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to public health emergencies.

Biosafety and Biosecurity Committee (BBC)

The APHL Biosafety and Biosecurity Committee (BBC) is at the forefront of promoting safe, secure, and responsible practices in laboratory settings. Our committee is dedicated to advancing the principles of biosafety and biosecurity, ensuring that laboratories have the knowledge, resources, and support they need to work with potentially hazardous materials while minimizing risks to personnel, the environment, and public health.

The Biosafety and Biosecurity Committee brings together experts, professionals, and stakeholders from various sectors who share a common commitment to safeguarding laboratory workers, communities, and the broader public from the potential risks associated with biological agents and hazardous materials. Our diverse membership includes biosafety officers, laboratory directors, researchers, regulators, and industry representatives, all working together to set standards and drive excellence in biosafety and biosecurity practices.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide guidance, resources, and advocacy for the implementation of effective biosafety and biosecurity measures across all levels of laboratories, from clinical and research settings to public health institutions. By fostering a culture of responsibility and vigilance, we contribute to the global effort to prevent laboratory-acquired infections, accidental releases, and intentional misuse of biological agents.

What We Do

  • Setting Standards: We collaborate to develop and update biosafety and biosecurity standards, guidelines, and best practices that reflect the latest advancements in science and technology.
  • Education and Training: Our committee works to enhance the knowledge and skills of laboratory personnel by providing training, workshops, and resources that cover a wide range of biosafety and biosecurity topics.
  • Risk Assessment: We assist laboratories in conducting risk assessments and implementing risk management strategies to mitigate potential hazards associated with their work.
  • Advocacy: We advocate for policies and regulations that prioritize biosafety and biosecurity, ensuring that laboratories have the necessary support to maintain safe and secure operations.
  • Networking and Collaboration: We facilitate connections among professionals in the field, promoting the exchange of ideas, experiences, and lessons learned to drive continuous improvement in biosafety and biosecurity practices.