As with any animal production setting, biosecurity at aquaculture facilities involves identification, prioritization, and implementation of effective strategies necessary to prevent the introduction, proliferation, and spread of pathogens as well as preparation for any other disasters. Biosecurity plans should be in written format to ensure consistency in communicating and implementing the facility's established protocols and procedures.

Properly implemented biosecurity measures at an aquaculture operation can:

• Promote aquatic animal health and minimize loss of animals
• Protect the producer’s economic investment  
• Enhance trade and export of aquatic animals and products
• Deter the introduction of new or emerging pathogens
• Minimize the impact of a disease, should it occur
• Protect the safety of the food supply
• Protect human health from zoonotic diseases

Biosecurity practices, procedures and policies include those used daily or routinely as well as those needed for disease outbreak situations. An effective biosecurity program should:

• Prevent or minimize disease risk factors and problems before they occur
• Detect problems that do occur
• Provide suitable measures and controls
• Evaluate outcomes