Fundamentals of Microbiology

Safety Procedures to be Adopted in Microbiology Laboratory

Safety procedures must be an integral part of all the work that you perform in a microbiology laboratory. Although, all microorganisms are not pathogenic to human beings, essentially all microorganisms that are handled in the laboratory must be treated as potential pathogens, because under appropriate circumstances most of the organisms could produce infections.

            Microorganisms may gain entry into the human host in several ways including the following:

1. Aerosol:  Microorganisms may become airborne through laboratory accidents or by removal of enclosures covering culture tubes.

2. Ingestion: Microorganisms may be ingested if hands are not thoroughly washed before leaving the laboratory or after accidentally spilling live culture material on the hands.

3. Direct inoculation: Microorganisms may be inoculated directly into the blood stream through carelessness in using syringes and needles or by improper handling of broken glass wares.

4. Skin contact: Some microorganisms can penetrate intact skin, small cuts or scratches and conjunctiva of the eye.

The most successful way to avoid possible transmission of infections agents is by proper washing of hands.