Industry Insights

World BioHazTec has been a leader in biosafety and biosecurity since its inception in 1995. Over the years, we have successfully completed numerous groundbreaking projects and received prestigious awards, showcasing our dedication to excellence and innovation.

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Outsourcing Training for Work in Critical Environments

When managing a high-containment facility, such as a BSL-3 lab, safety is paramount. Training staff to handle biological hazards properly and operate within stringent protocols can literally be a matter of life and death. A critical question many organizations face is whether to develop training programs in-house or outsource this training to a specialized provider. We’ll explore barriers to in-house development and delivery of quality training and why outsourcing your training for high-consequence workplaces could be the best option for your organization. What are your barriers to faster learning design and development? A recent survey conducted by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), which has supported instructional developers of employee training programs worldwide for over 80 years, identified eight top barriers to faster learning design and development.[1] The top three barriers are: Adapted from DeFelice, R. 2021. ATD Blog. Rounding out the top eight barriers include lack of availability of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) or stakeholders at 37%. In our experience, SMEs and stakeholders have many hats they wear, and their time is limited. Often, SMEs are outside of the organization and pose an additional expense to the development of in-house training, initially and annual updates to the curriculum. World BioHazTec uses the Successive Approximation Model (SAM) approach to instructional design. SAM is a three-phase process: Preparation Phase, Iterative Design Phase, and Iterative Development Phase.[2] SMEs and stakeholders are brought in at the initial outlining phase and then only as needed for review. Because this is an iterative process, by the time the final phase is reached, SMEs and stakeholders have agreed to the plans and there should be very few revisions, or scope creep, to the design and plans. This saves time for these busy professionals and reduces costs by managing time and scope. Limited learning infrastructure—such as access to dedicated systems, authoring tools, and networks—accounts for 35% of the barriers. Authoring tools and resources, such as licensed images, add to the expense. Additionally, online self-paced (asynchronous) learning modules require authoring tools to create interactive content with feedback, as well as a learning management system to deliver the modules effectively. The final three barriers are a lack of learning and development skills within the talent development team (25%), lack of accountability (when the talent development team or SMEs do not fulfill responsibilities or meet deadlines) (23%), and insufficient leadership or management support (19%). These barriers indicate that staff are often occupied with other duties, with training development frequently becoming a lower priority. How much extra time does your staff have? Developing in-house training programs takes time—far more than many organizations realize. According to ATD in its most recent survey, creating one hour of new classroom training can take anywhere from 112 to 367 hours to develop.[3] That means developing just a half-day session could consume weeks of work by several employees. Time that could be better spent on other critical functions of your lab. Also, think of the breadth of knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain a high-containment laboratory, both for inside and outside, from construction to cybersecurity, from environmental protection to personal safety. Biosafety professionals not only require training in performing their jobs safely, they are also involved in risk assessments and compliance with applicable regulations daily, and appropriate emergency response. Frequently, the biosafety professional is called upon to participate in the planning, design, and validation of a new biocontainment laboratory or renovation of an existing facility. “Biosafety professionals should have a foundation in all aspects of working in and around a high-containment laboratory and develop skills to ask questions in specific terms and have the confidence to question the answers.” -World BioHazTec Course Development Guide. [Internal Communication] Developing meaningful, high-quality training that addresses all necessary components typically requires more SMEs and stakeholders than a single facility may have available for training development.  Outsourcing training development strengthens course quality by bringing together SMEs with various expertise for only the time that is necessary under the management of a proven training development team. Also, the development team can use resources already developed to tailor to the specific needs of your facility and staff, which saves time and resources. If you’re thinking of transitioning your existing training into an online format, the time investment can be even greater. Converting a course into effective web-based training requires expertise in instructional design, an investment in e-learning tools, an understanding of e-learning platforms, and the ability to ensure that virtual training still delivers the same level of engagement and effectiveness as in-person sessions. Just as with any training, online training and learning management systems must be monitored regularly and reports generated to stakeholders. Outsourcing this process to specialists not only saves your team countless hours but also ensures the training is designed by professionals with experience in biosafety, biosecurity, and online learning. A Fresh Perspective and Unbiased Assessment One of the key benefits of outsourcing your BSL-3 training is gaining access to an external team of experts who can offer a fresh perspective. When organizations develop their own training programs, there’s often a risk of becoming too close to the material, potentially missing gaps or risks that an SME might spot, offering a fresh perspective. An external provider can objectively assess your current protocols, highlight potential areas for improvement, and suggest best practices based on up-to-date industry standards. “Things change quickly …, so job responsibilities must evolve. If companies evolve their strategy and expect employees to expand their skill sets, offering a team continuous learning will help prevent them from falling behind.” [2] In high-stakes environments like BSL-3 labs, where even minor oversights can have serious consequences, having an unbiased third-party review can add an additional layer of safety. Expert consultants are experienced in tailoring their training programs to meet both your specific operational needs and strict regulatory requirements, ensuring your staff is fully equipped to handle emergencies and day-to-day challenges. CEUs and Professional Development Incentives Professional development is also a tool for employee retention. “About 80 percent of employees rank professional development and continuous learning as high priorities when job hunting. And 94 percent of employees say if an employer invested more in learning and development, they would stay longer at an organization.” [3] Another significant advantage of outsourcing BSL-3 training is the ability to offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs). If your training provider is accredited, they can award CEUs to participants which can be used to maintain certification with professional organizations. This ensures your team remains compliant with the latest industry developments and ongoing certification requirements. It also provides an added incentive for staff to engage in the training. CEUs enhance the perceived value of the training, as they provide tangible career benefits to employees. By outsourcing, you can integrate this offering into your program without the burden of navigating the lengthy accreditation process yourself. Outsourcing Offers Expertise, Efficiency, and Compliance The decision to outsource BSL-3 training boils down to efficiency and safety. By partnering with an experienced external provider, you’re investing in expert insights, saving substantial time, and ensuring your team has access to accredited, top-tier training. Not only does this free up your internal resources, but it also offers peace of mind knowing your staff is receiving the most current and comprehensive training available. So, should you outsource your BSL-3 training? For most organizations, the answer is a resounding yes. World BioHazTec provides extensive professional development training. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about our customized training offerings.   [1] DeFelice, R. 2021. ATD Blog. Retrieved from https://www.td.org/content/atd-blog/how-long-does-it-take-to-develop-training-new-question-new-answers [2] Allen, M. (2012). Leaving ADDIE for SAM – An agile model for developing the best learning experiences. Washington DC: American Society for Training and Development. [3] Based on survey average module length of 23 minutes, the variance was 43 to 141 hours with an average of 67 hours. These results were used to calculate times to develop a one-hour module. [4] Rozensweig, F. 2022. Retrieved from https://www.td.org/atd-blog/shift-from-onboarding-to-everboarding. [5] Rosenzweig, F. 2022. ATD blog. Retrieved from https://www.td.org/content/atd-blog/shift-from-onboarding-to-everboarding

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Handling Animals in ABSL-3 Labs During a Storm

In ABSL-3 labs that work with animals, ensuring their safety and well-being during a storm is a critical part of your emergency preparedness plan. Hurricanes and severe weather can pose significant risks to both the animals and the personnel responsible for their care. Proper planning and clear protocols are essential to minimize these risks and protect the integrity of ongoing research. 1. Pre-Storm Preparations Before a storm hits, take proactive steps to secure the animals and their environments: Relocation Plan: If possible, identify a safer location within the facility where animals can be relocated during the storm. This area should be structurally sound, away from windows, and equipped with backup power to maintain essential functions like ventilation and temperature control. The relocated area should be able to maintain containment by existing services or by a temporary containment enclosure on a higher floor if animals are at ground or basement level. Supply Stockpile: Ensure that there is an adequate stockpile of food, water, bedding, and any necessary medications to last through the duration of the storm and potential aftermath. Consider stocking additional supplies in case the storm disrupts access to regular deliveries. Securing Enclosures: Verify that all animal enclosures are secure and capable of withstanding the conditions of a severe storm. Reinforce cages, pens, or aquariums as necessary to prevent injury or escape during high winds or flooding. 2. During the Storm During the storm, maintaining the safety and comfort of the animals is a priority: Minimal Personnel Presence: Limit the number of personnel in the facility to only those essential for monitoring the animals. Ensure that those present are trained in emergency procedures and are aware of potential risks. Continuous Monitoring: If safe to do so, continue monitoring the animals and their environments throughout the storm. Use remote monitoring systems if available to reduce the need for personnel to be physically present. Backup Systems: Ensure that backup power systems, such as generators, are operational to maintain critical environmental controls, such as temperature, humidity, and air filtration. 3. Post-Storm Recovery After the storm passes, it’s crucial to assess the animals and their environments for any damage or health issues: Health Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of all animals to check for signs of stress, injury, or illness. Address any health concerns immediately to prevent further complications. Environmental Inspection: Inspect the animals’ enclosures and surrounding areas for any structural damage or hazards, such as broken glass, water intrusion, or compromised ventilation. Repair or replace damaged equipment promptly. Reinstate Routine Care: As soon as it is safe, return to normal care routines and environmental conditions. Ensure that all supplies are replenished and that the animals are monitored closely for any delayed effects of the storm. 4. Review and Update Animal Care Protocols Finally, after the storm, review the effectiveness of your animal care protocols and make any necessary updates: Debriefing: Hold a debriefing session with all involved personnel to discuss what went well and identify areas for improvement. Document any lessons learned and incorporate them into your emergency preparedness plan. Plan Revisions: Update your animal handling protocols based on the experiences and outcomes from the storm. Ensure that all changes are communicated clearly to the relevant staff. Conclusion Handling animals during a storm in an ABSL-3 lab requires careful planning, swift action, and ongoing vigilance. By taking these steps, you can help protect the animals under your care and ensure the continuity of your research, even in the face of severe weather. If you operate a BSL-3 lab, be sure to read our other blog on how to prepare your BSL-3 lab for hurricane season. World BioHazTec is here to support your lab with expert advice and services, ensuring that your high-containment laboratory remains safe and operational, even during the most challenging conditions. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation or send us an email. Our services to support you include: Risk assessment Lab inspection Certification including testing emergency backup power Emergency response training and drills Writing and/or reviewing emergency response plans

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Preparing Your BSL-3 Lab for Hurricane Season: Essential Steps for Safety and Continuity

As hurricane season approaches, the need for robust preparedness in high-containment laboratories, particularly BSL-3 labs, becomes critical. These labs handle dangerous pathogens that require stringent safety measures, making them especially vulnerable during severe weather events like hurricanes. Ensuring the safety and continuity of operations in these labs is paramount to protect both the research being conducted and the surrounding environment. Here’s a guide to help you prepare your BSL-3 lab for hurricanes and other storms. 1. Develop and Regularly Review the Comprehensive Emergency Plan The first step in preparing your BSL-3 lab for hurricane season is to review your current plan or establish a detailed emergency plan. This plan should outline the procedures for securing the lab before a storm, as well as the steps to take during and after the event. It’s crucial to review and update the emergency plan regularly, ensuring that any changes are communicated to all personnel. Key elements of the plan should include: Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks specific to your lab’s location and operations. This includes evaluating the lab’s structural integrity, utilities, fuel supply and access to essential emergency services. Emergency Contacts: Maintain an updated list of key personnel, including lab managers, safety officers, and local emergency services. Ensure that all staff members are aware of the contact procedures. Evacuation Procedures: Clearly outline evacuation routes and procedures, ensuring that all personnel are trained and familiar with them. Their safety as well as their families is paramount. Onsite personnel need a family evacuation plan. 2. Safeguard Critical Research and Equipment Hurricanes and storms can cause significant damage to laboratory equipment and disrupt ongoing research. To minimize the impact, it’s essential to safeguard critical research materials and equipment: Backup Data: Regularly back up all important data and research findings. Store backups in a secure, off-site location or use cloud-based storage solutions that are accessible from remote locations. Protect Equipment and Research Materials: Secure sensitive equipment and research materials by moving them to safe areas within the lab, away from windows and potential water damage. Use waterproof coverings and store materials in sealed containers. Refrigeration and Power Backup: Ensure that freezers, refrigerators, and other essential equipment have backup power sources. Verify that the critical systems maintain power in the event of a power outage. 3. Ensure Structural Integrity and Facility Safety The physical safety of your BSL-3 lab or ABSL-3 lab is a top priority during hurricane season. Conducting a thorough inspection of the facility can help identify potential vulnerabilities: Inspect Building Structure: Check the building’s roof, windows, overhead storm drainage piping and doors for any signs of wear or damage that could be exacerbated by high winds or heavy rain. Reinforce these areas as needed. Secure Hazardous Materials: Ensure that all hazardous materials are properly stored and secured. This includes double-checking that all containment procedures are followed, and that chemical storage areas are reinforced against potential leaks or spills. Test Emergency Systems: Regularly test all emergency systems, including fire alarms, ventilation, differential pressure alarm and emergency power to include local Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS). Station flashlights throughout the laboratory and support spaces. Make sure these systems are fully operational, and that staff knows how to use them in an emergency. 4. Plan for Post-Storm Recovery Preparation doesn’t end when the storm passes. Having a post-storm recovery plan in place is crucial for resuming operations quickly and safely: Damage Assessment: As soon as it is safe to do so, conduct a thorough assessment of the lab to identify any damage or safety hazards. This should include structural checks as well as an inventory of equipment and materials. Structural issues could affect containment. Check differential pressures to ensure HVAC equipment has not been damaged. Take photographs for the facilities department of the wet sections of drywall, as mold remediation will likely be necessary. Decontamination Protocols: If any containment breaches occur, have decontamination protocols ready to address spills, leaks, or other contamination issues. This may involve specialized cleaning teams or additional safety measures to ensure the lab is safe for re-entry. Communication: Keep open lines of communication with all personnel and relevant authorities throughout the recovery process. Ensure that everyone is informed about the status of the lab and any steps needed to restore normal operations. 5. Review and Update Protocols Regularly Finally, it’s essential to regularly review and update your emergency preparedness protocols to reflect any changes in the lab’s operations or physical layout. Hurricane season can be unpredictable, and having an up-to-date plan ensures that your lab is always ready to respond effectively. 6. Evacuation Establish in advance the scenarios that would require laboratory evacuation. Maintaining constant communication with facilities and executive management during the devolution of the facility is crucial for determining when evacuation is necessary. Conclusion Preparing your BSL-3 lab for hurricanes and other severe storms is not just about protecting equipment and data—it’s about ensuring the safety of your personnel and the integrity of your research. By developing a comprehensive emergency plan, safeguarding critical assets, ensuring the structural integrity of your facility, and planning for post-storm recovery, you can mitigate the risks associated with severe weather events. World BioHazTec is here to support your lab with expert advice and services, ensuring that your high-containment laboratory remains safe and operational, even during the most challenging conditions. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation or send us an email. Our services to support you include: Risk assessment Lab inspection Certification including testing emergency backup power Emergency response training and drills Writing and/or reviewing emergency response plans

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World BioHazTec is an Accredited Provider (AP) of the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). As an IACET Accredited Provider, World BioHazTec offers IACET CEUs for its learning events that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Information.

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