From June 12-14, 2024, a comprehensive Biorisk Management Complementary Training was conducted at Usmania Restaurant, Quetta. This training was designed specifically for faculty members and research scholars of the Microbiology Laboratory at Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS).
Organized by the Association for Biorisk Management (ABM) under the Health Security Partners (HSP) USA, the training aimed to enhance the capabilities of biological laboratories in Pakistan. Dr. Kaleem U. Kakar, Associate Professor at the Department of Microbiology, member of the biosafety committee, and subject specialist for course (Biosafety, Biosecurity and Biorisk Management), headed the event, ensuring that the training met its objectives effectively.
The three-day session provided participants with critical knowledge and skills in three key areas:
• Biosafety: Understanding the practices and equipment necessary to prevent laboratory-acquired infections and ensure the safety of personnel.
• Biosecurity: Implementing measures to protect laboratory assets, including biological materials, from theft, misuse, or intentional harm.
• Biorisk management: Evaluation, mitigation and management of risks associated with handling potential pathogens and developing strategies to mitigate these risks.
The training emphasized practical applications and case studies, allowing participants to engage with real-world scenarios and develop effective risk management strategies.
The knowledge gained from this training is expected to significantly contribute to improving laboratory practices and enhancing overall safety and security within the Microbiology Lab at BUITEMS.
This initiative reflects a commitment to advancing the standards of laboratory safety and risk management in Pakistan and provides valuable resources for researchers and faculty members in their ongoing efforts to maintain high safety standards in their work.