AFMS that offer certification of laboratories according to the BMBL (Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories) and WHO (World Health Organization) guidelines play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and compliance of laboratory facilities.
BMBL and WHO guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations and standards for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous biological materials in laboratory settings. Certification services based on these guidelines help laboratories meet the necessary requirements to maintain a safe working environment for personnel and prevent the release of harmful substances into the surrounding community.
AFMS that specialize in laboratory certification typically conduct thorough assessments of various aspects of the facility. These assessments may include:
Bio Containment assessments
Biosafety Cabinets (BSCs) Evaluation:
BSCs are critical equipment used in laboratories to provide containment and protection when working with hazardous materials. The certification process involves evaluating the performance and functionality of BSCs to ensure they meet the required standards outlined in the guidelines. This evaluation includes verifying airflow patterns, filter efficiency, and proper containment of airborne contaminants.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) System Assessment:
The HVAC system plays a significant role in maintaining a clean and controlled environment within the laboratory. The certification service examines the HVAC system to ensure proper air circulation, temperature control, and filtration efficiency. Regular maintenance and cleaning of air filters within the system are vital to prevent the buildup of contaminants and ensure the system operates optimally.
Environmental Monitoring:
Certification services often include monitoring the laboratory environment for potential contaminants such as airborne particles, microorganisms, and volatile organic compounds. This monitoring may involve air sampling and analysis to identify any deviations from the acceptable levels defined in the guidelines.
Documentation Review:
Certification services also involve a thorough review of laboratory documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and training records. This ensures that the laboratory has appropriate policies and practices in place to comply with the BMBL and WHO guidelines.
Biosafety Cabinets (BSCs) Evaluation:
BSCs are critical equipment used in laboratories to provide containment and protection when working with hazardous materials. The certification process involves evaluating the performance and functionality of BSCs to ensure they meet the required standards outlined in the guidelines. This evaluation includes verifying airflow patterns, filter efficiency, and proper containment of airborne contaminants.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) System Assessment:
The HVAC system plays a significant role in maintaining a clean and controlled environment within the laboratory. The certification service examines the HVAC system to ensure proper air circulation, temperature control, and filtration efficiency. Regular maintenance and cleaning of air filters within the system are vital to prevent the buildup of contaminants and ensure the system operates optimally.
Environmental Monitoring:
Certification services often include monitoring the laboratory environment for potential contaminants such as airborne particles, microorganisms, and volatile organic compounds. This monitoring may involve air sampling and analysis to identify any deviations from the acceptable levels defined in the guidelines.
Documentation Review:
Certification services also involve a thorough review of laboratory documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and training records. This ensures that the laboratory has appropriate policies and practices in place to comply with the BMBL and WHO guidelines.
By undergoing certification based on BMBL and WHO guidelines, laboratories demonstrate their commitment to maintaining high standards of biosafety and biosecurity. It provides assurance to laboratory personnel, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies that the facility has implemented the necessary measures to protect individuals and the environment from potential hazards associated with handling biological materials.
AFMS that offer certification based on BMBL and WHO guidelines help laboratories identify areas for improvement, implement corrective actions, and maintain a safe working environment. Regular certification and adherence to these guidelines are essential to ensure ongoing compliance, reduce risks, and enhance the overall safety and quality of laboratory operations.
