Assessment of Biosafety Management System Effectiveness in Research Laboratories in Houet Province, Burkina Faso: A Cross-sectional Survey of Three Research Centres

Abstract

Background: In Burkina Faso, scientific and biotechnological research is expanding rapidly, raising biosafety and biosecurity concerns. Despite challenges related to budgetary constraints and the management of biological risks, laboratories must comply with safety standards to protect staff and the public. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the biosafety management system in research laboratories in Houet Province, Burkina Faso. Method: Between June and December 2023, 116 volunteers (n = 116) from three research centres (MURAZ Centre, CIRDES and IRSS) were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using Sphinx and Excel (version 2502), and the results are presented as frequency tables. Results: The organisation of biosafety in the laboratories was satisfactory, with strong access control (94.0%), well-established procedures for sample transport (94.0%) and an existing biosafety policy (88.8%). However, participation in emergency evacuation drills was critically low (32.8%), with a notable gap between permanent staff (47.1%) and trainees (21.7%). Hepatitis vaccination coverage reached only 60.3%. Microbiological safety cabinets were available to 49.1% of respondents. Improvements are required in the reporting of exposure incidents, vaccination coverage and participation in medical check-ups. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of strengthening ongoing staff training, improving vaccination programmes and ensuring rigorous medical follow-up to reduce biological risks in research laboratories in Burkina Faso.