WORKSHOP
Tuberculosis is a disease that affects humans. To avoid contamination of the researchers by the bacilli a series of biosafety guidelines needs to be implemented in TB research laboratories. Specific training is important to avoid accidents.
This workshop was designed to raise awareness of the field workers collaborating with the MAF-TB project for the importance of biosafety. This was an interactive workshop, based on examples and images to help introducing and discussing the different issues.
In the workshop four main topics were presented: how are the Tuberculosis-causing bacteria transmitted; how to perform a risk assessment evaluation; how to work in safety; how to discard potentially infectious residues.
The WHO Tuberculosis Laboratory biosafety manual was discussed, the correct use of personal protective equipment was demonstrated, risk assessment for the different planned activities elaborated, decontamination options discussed and emergency procedures presented. At the end a small quiz was performed, and any remaining questions clarified.