The Argentine Experience in Enhancing Biosafety through Good Laboratory Practices

Though there may be growing concern about safe laboratory practices in Argentina, there exist lacunae in the development and implementation of effective educational programmes. Efforts of the Argentinean Association of Microbiology (AAM) and the National Institutes of Health in providing training courses have contributed to a healthier work environment. Since the early 1990s, guidelines from the Ministry of Health have been implemented regarding the safe disposal of medical wastes, handling and manipulation of blood-borne pathogens and transportation of biological agents. Also, with World Bank support, Class II biosafety cabinets have been distributed throughout the country to national hospitals and reference laboratories, to provide containment for infectious splashes, and laboratory facilities have been reformed. The ongoing training courses on good laboratory practices have demonstrated that it is possible to change habits, improve motivation to work and act safely. Personnel of the microbiology laboratories should be trained in the proper use of equipment and procedures, including recording accidents. It should be noted that important efforts have been made by national institutions in providing assistance and coordinating biosafety networking in almost all Argentine provinces.