Rapid Assessment

Applications to develop a GMO in containment or import a GMO into containment which meet the criteria for a low-risk genetic modification may be processed using the ‘rapid assessment’ procedure. ²³²⁰  The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (Low-Risk Genetic Modification) Regulations 2003 specify developments which are low-risk genetic modifications and developments which are not low-risk genetic modifications.

If the low risk criteria are met, the application need only describe the project for the development of genetically modified organisms, the identity of the host organisms, and the nature and range of the proposed genetic modifications. ²³²¹

After completing a rapid assessment, the EPA may approve the application, impose any controls for the matters set out in Schedule 3, and (for applications to develop GMOs) direct the applicant to provide progress reports on the development at specified times. ²³²²

A rapid assessment must be completed within 10 working days of receipt of the application. ²³²³

The EPA has delegated its power to determine low risk applications to the Institutional Biological Safety Committees of the University of Auckland, University of Otago, Massey University and Lincoln University. ²³²⁴

Last updated at 12:22PM on February 25, 2015