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Guidelines for the management of accidents involving microorganisms: a WHO memorandum
Abstract:
The response to an emergency resulting from an accident involving microorganisms, whether in a laboratory or during needs to be graded according to the degree of hazard to human or animal health created by the circumstances of the accident and the properties of the organisms concerned. A categorization of microorganisms by risk groups is proposed for the purposes of accident management, and the factors influencing assignment to risk groups are described. Organizational responsibilities at government health authority and local levels are outlined and emphasis is placed on contingency planning. Medical surveillance is proposed for persons who work in laboratories with dangerous microorganisms, as a means of recognizing accidents that might otherwise go undetected. The response to exposure in a laboratory or transport-associated accident includes emergency safety measures at the site, hazard assessment, and action by the public health or veterinary authorities. The management of exposed persons is considered in relation to the immediate post-exposure period, the potential incubation period, and the onset of illness. Prophylactic treatment, surveillance, and the transport and isolation of infected persons are described. A distinction is drawn between the consequences of accidents recognized at the time of their occurrence and those that are only recognized by onset of illness in the exposed persons.
Insights
Accidents involving microorganisms require risk assessment for effective emergency response. This study proposes a microorganism risk group categorization for managing laboratory and transport incidents involving hazardous biological agents.
Area of Science:
- Biosafety
- Laboratory Safety
- Public Health
Background:
- Accidents involving microorganisms pose risks to human and animal health.
- Current emergency response protocols require refinement for biological incidents.
- Effective management necessitates a clear understanding of organism hazards.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a risk group categorization for microorganisms to aid accident management.
- To outline organizational responsibilities and contingency planning for biological emergencies.
- To detail response strategies for laboratory and transport-associated accidents involving hazardous microorganisms.
Main Methods:
- Development of a microorganism risk group classification system based on hazard potential.
- Description of factors influencing risk group assignment.
- Outline of organizational roles and contingency planning strategies.
- Proposal for medical surveillance programs for laboratory personnel.
Main Results:
- A proposed categorization of microorganisms into risk groups for accident management.
- Defined organizational responsibilities for health authorities and local levels.
- Emphasis on the importance of contingency planning and medical surveillance.
- Detailed response protocols for immediate post-exposure, incubation period, and illness onset.
Conclusions:
- Grading emergency response based on hazard is crucial.
- A standardized risk group categorization facilitates effective accident management.
- Proactive measures like contingency planning and medical surveillance are vital for biosafety.
- Differentiating between immediate and delayed accident recognition is key for appropriate intervention.