Evaluation des risques biologiques dans un laboratoire de bactériologie à Lomé

The medical microbiology laboratory plays a crucial role in the diagnosis of infectious diseases and the surveillance of epidemics. However, it also poses risks to the health of employees, the community, and the environment in which it is located. This study aims to assess biological risks in a bacteriology laboratory in Lomé using a cross-sectional and descriptive approach. The risk assessment was conducted through observation of activities, a safety audit based on ISO 15190 :2020, and the use of a WHO biorisk assessment matrix and the requirements of ISO 35001 :2019. The main activities carried out in this laboratory included sample collection and cytobacteriological studies (urine, stool, pus, and miscellaneous samples, genitourinary swabs, etc.). The identified hazards included Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas spp., and Enterococcus spp., among others. These hazards can cause health problems of varying severity. An audit of the existing safety measures revealed a compliance rate of 88%. Provisions related to housekeeping, exposure, information, and training achieved 100% compliance, while exposure assessment and vaccination compliance achieved only 50%. The risk analysis categorized the laboratory as low to moderate risk based on its activities. This study determined the risk level in this medical microbiology laboratory and suggested effective prevention and control measures to ensure the safety of staff, the community, and the environment, as well as regulatory compliance.