Probe: Chain of Failures Led to Anthrax Shipment

Failures to adhere to procedure at the scientific, institutional, and individual levels contributed to the incident in which live anthrax spores were shipped inadvertently to numerous locations from Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, according to findings of an official internal investigation conducted by the Defense Department and the Centers for Disease Control. No one was harmed in the incident. The panel recommended several steps to ensure that such incidents do not happen again, including: additional research to address gaps in scientific knowledge; institutional changes aimed at reducing overall risk; and holding leadership responsible for ensuring that sound procedures are followed.