In 1973, the publication “Biohazards in Biological Research,” was edited by S. Hellman, M. Oxman, and R. Pollack.  Pollack’s early concern about the safety of certain recombinant DNA experiments resulted in the publication of the first book to warn the world of biotechnology’s potential dark side.

In his comments Pollack addresses the need for improved safety protocols and stricter controls in laboratories working with potentially hazardous biological agents. He emphasizes the uneven standards in the certification and handling of biological materials, such as primary monkey cells and hybrid viruses, and the inconsistencies in the availability of certified, safe biological products like poliovaccine.

Pollack calls for immediate action to implement safer practices, particularly in laboratories that handle dangerous viruses, cells, or animals.

He also highlights the necessity for central certification of virus seed stocks and suggests that governmental and private research agencies must provide the necessary funds to ensure safety in research.

Pollack warns that without adequate funding and safety measures, research may either continue with unnecessary risks or be halted entirely. Additionally, he stresses the importance of conducting prospective studies on the incidence of disease, including cancers, in laboratory workers to assess the potential harm of the agents being studied.