COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of this course is centered on the protection of laboratory personnel, the community, and the environment from accidental exposure to infectious agents. In an era of emerging pathogens and advanced biotechnological research, understanding the rigorous layers of bio-containment is a fundamental responsibility for every microbiologist. This course elevates the concept of safety from a set of rules to a sophisticated management system based on scientific risk assessment and engineering controls.

The scope of this training involves the detailed study of Bio-Safety Levels (BSL-1 through BSL-4) and the specific physical and administrative requirements of each. It covers the design and operation of Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs), high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, and specialized waste decontamination systems. By focusing on the interface between human behavior and mechanical barriers, the course provides a holistic approach to preventing laboratory-acquired infections (LAIs).

The coverage includes the management of bio-hazardous spills, the selection of advanced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and the legal requirements for the transport of infectious substances. Participants will learn how to conduct thorough bio-safety audits, develop emergency response plans, and manage the psychological factors that influence safety compliance. This course ensures that the microbiological laboratory operates as a secure environment capable of handling high-risk pathogens with zero leakage.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Classify microorganisms based on Risk Groups and determine BSL requirements.
• Operate and verify the performance of various types of Biological Safety Cabinets.
• Conduct a comprehensive bio-safety risk assessment for new laboratory procedures.
• Implement advanced decontamination and sterilization protocols using autoclaves.
• Select and use specialized PPE for high-containment microbiological work.
• Manage the safe handling and disposal of bio-hazardous waste and sharps.
• Respond effectively to bio-hazardous spills and accidental exposure incidents.
• Design a laboratory layout that optimizes bio-containment and workflow.
• Comply with international regulations for the shipping of infectious substances.
• Execute internal bio-safety audits and document safety violations.
• Train junior staff on the principles of aseptic technique and containment.
• Formulate an emergency preparedness plan for biological laboratory fires or leaks.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is designed for Microbiologists, Laboratory Managers, Bio-safety Officers, Research Scientists, and Health and Safety Professionals working in clinical, diagnostic, or research microbiology facilities.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.