Raising the Level of Microbiology Laboratory Safety at Science Center Phetchabun Rajabhat University Using ESPReL Checklist

Abstract

Enhancing laboratory safety is a critical component of laboratory management, particularly in microbiology laboratories where activities involve various microorganisms, infectious materials, and hazardous chemicals that may pose risks to laboratory personnel, public health, and the environment. Therefore, the establishment and continuous improvement of laboratory safety systems are essential to ensure safe working conditions and compliance with recognized safety standards. This study aimed to assess and improve the safety status of the microbiology laboratory at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Phetchabun Rajabhat University, using the ESPReL Checklist framework, which comprises seven key safety components. The laboratory safety evaluation was conducted in two phases: a baseline assessment (first evaluation) and a post-intervention assessment (second evaluation), over a six-month period. The findings indicated that the overall laboratory safety score at baseline was 66.74%. Following the implementation of safety improvement measures, the overall score increased to 77.24%, representing an improvement of 10.50%. Analysis of individual components revealed that Component 6, which focuses on fundamental laboratory safety education and training, achieved the highest score at 100%, demonstrating a high level of awareness and competency among laboratory personnel. In contrast, Component 5, related to hazard prevention and emergency response systems, recorded the lowest score at 34.00%, indicating the need for further development and strengthening in this area. Overall, the results demonstrate that the implementation of the ESPReL Checklist effectively improved the safety performance of the microbiology laboratory. The findings can be used as a guideline for developing a model laboratory safety management system and promoting standardized safety practices for the handling of chemicals, laboratory equipment, and scientific instruments in accordance with established laboratory safety standards.