Laboratory and biological risks

The main measures that can be implemented in order to prevent the risk of infection concern the workplace, the instrumentation and the worker.
The diagnostic laboratory must be reclaimed by an accurate cleansing and disinfection (for example, by means of a 1% solution of sodium hypochlorite) that must primarily regard the working places.
A good measure is that of disinfecting the rooms during the night with ultraviolet rays. As far as the instrumentation is concerned, it is advisable to employ disposable materials that, afer use, must be disposed of in rigid containers that are quickly sent to sterilization.
The employment of automatic pipettes is recommended, as they reduce aerosol formation. Furthermore, the employment of laminar air flow fume cupboards is advisable when working with pathological materials contaminated by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Also centrifuges may represent a receptacle for germs and should, therefore, be periodically reclaimed with compatible disinfectants.
The personal protection of the worker is based on the employment of white coats, gloves and, if necessary, masks. Furthermore, the worker must report to the person in charge of the laboratory any accidental exposure or accident. Finally, vaccination is recommended (for example anti-hepatits B vaccination and typhoid vaccination) as it confers a good degree of protection.

As far as the laws in force with respect to health and safety for the protection against biological agents are concerned, it is necessary to consider the law n. 626/1994.
The regulation provides also for the duty of the employer to assess risks and adopt the necessary preventive measures. Workers exposed to biological risks are subject to health surveillance.

Laboratories

Biological laboratories

Laboratory and biological risks