Laboratory safety and security concepts for clinical laboratory students and universities staff in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

A number of accidents with safety implications happen within laboratories due to inadequate regulations, improper execution of safety protocols, or a lack of awareness and adherence to safety measures. Consequently, it is imperative to establish effective regulations and cultivate safe behaviors concerning workplace safety to avert or reduce such incidents. In this context, we are delving into the extent of awareness and to examine the laboratory safety and security concepts that are essential among Clinical Laboratory Sciences students : A descriptive and analytical study about laboratory safety, was directed by researchers on a sample comprising over 100 participants from students, and instructors of both genders from various colleges and scientific centers. A specially designed questionnaire to collect data. The questionnaire consisted of multiple sections, covering topics such as personal information (e.g., gender, qualification, age, experience) and subjects' knowledge of laboratory safety skills, accidents, fires, guidelines, infectious materials, safety protocols, mistakes, research execution rules, laws and regulations, and training. Data collection employed a stratified random sampling method, with over 100 participants exceeding a response rate of 60%. The study provides an overview of the current safety practices in clinical laboratories, identifies common risks and hazards, and explores strategies to enhance safety and security awareness. The results indicated that students had lower knowledge of laboratory safety compared to university staff members. However, overall knowledge of safety and security in chemistry laboratories among the subjects in this study exceeded 80%, possibly due to comprehensive workshops organized in most colleges. The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating safety and security education into the curriculum to ensure the well-being of students, universities staff, and the overall laboratory environment.