The effect of microbiological containment systems on dexterity

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Laboratory Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Microbiology laboratories employ containment equipment to mitigate aerosol infection hazards.
• A common perception exists that containment equipment impairs manual dexterity, potentially increasing sharps-related risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectively assess the impact of various personal protective equipment (PPE) and containment systems on manual dexterity.
• To compare the dexterity-reducing effects of different containment methods used in microbiology.

Main Methods:

• Manual dexterity was tested using three methods on 10 subjects under various conditions: bare hands, latex gloves, positive pressure respirator, Class II safety cabinet, half suit, and flexible film isolator.
• Class III cabinets were further assessed with 20 subjects.

Main Results:

• All tested PPE and containment equipment, except latex gloves, significantly impaired manual dexterity compared to bare hands.
• Barrier containment systems like Class III cabinets and isolators demonstrated the most significant reduction in dexterity.
• Positive pressure respirators with double gloves also affected dexterity, though to a lesser degree.

Conclusions:

• Containment systems, particularly barrier types, significantly reduce manual dexterity, potentially elevating accident risks.
• The use of sharps within containment equipment should be minimized.
• Comparative risk assessments are necessary to balance aerosol and needlestick infection risks when selecting appropriate containment strategies.