The Challenges in Managing Biorisk in National Health Research Laboratory from Facility Engineering Perspective

Abstract

Biorisk or known as Biosafety and Biosecurity is an activity to promote safety and security when handling dangerous biological agents (pathogen). The application of biorisk management and fulfillment of qualifications for laboratory building facilities according to the standards becomes a necessity. National Institute of Health Research and Development, Ministry of Health of Indonesia constructed Biosafety laboratory level 2 and biosafety laboratory level 3 buildings in 2007. Meanwhile at the time of the construction of the laboratory, the reference and guideline for building a laboratory was limited also regulation were not yet available. Objective: We presented various challenges in conducting biorisk management through facilities engineering in health research laboratories National Institute of Health Research and Development, Ministry of Health of Indonesia. Method: We used descriptive method to present engineering maintenance practice and experience by looking at the gaps between biosafety and biosecurity standard with the availability of resources in laboratory facilities engineering perspective. Result: The challenge in engineering practice presented in BSL-2 and BSL-3 was the pathogen containment, which include building ventilation system, mechanical-electrical system and other engineering based on experience in managing National Health Research Laboratory. Another engineering isuue that found quite difficult was managing the presence of condensation and airflow system in order to prevent cross contamination. In conclusion that planning and risk assessment is essential part when constructed a laboratory and the national guidelines for the construction of biosafety laboratories need to be made in Indonesia.