Bioprotection assessment in the containment laboratory of the Civil Defense Scientific Research Center

Abstract

Introduction: Following the anthrax cases reported in the United States, grew the concern about safeguarding microorganisms that can be used as biological weapons. The Civil Defense Scientific Research Center (CICDC) has the only containment laboratory where potentially pathogenic biological agents are handled, which must be controlled to prevent their possible theft or diversion.
Objective: Evaluate the bio-protection process in the containment laboratory of the civil defense scientific research center.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the period from July 1, 2023 to July 31, 2024, interview and observation were used as techniques, the guiding documentation of the biosafety process was reviewed and a semi-structured interview was conducted with the researchers.
Results: The review of the guiding documentation of biosafety at the civil defense scientific research center, the risk assessments of the processes run in its containment laboratory, the operation and special records of biological materials, a robust security and protection system and the reliability of the inventory of biological materials corroborate the adequate implementation and compliance with the biological risk management system and the absence of biosafety threats that allow the possible theft or diversion of stored biological material.
Conclusions: The successful bio-protection process ensures the sustainability of its containment laboratory and guarantees the safety of its workers, the community and the environment.