Efficacy, measurement and comparison of biosafety and biosecurity courses in mitigating emerging risks of COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Biosafety & Biosecurity training in COVID-19 pandemic proved beneficial for lab workers exposed to potentially infectious materials by increasing level of awareness. Essential that they be forewarned to the hazards and risks in working environment for biohazards; how to save themselves (Biosafety) and safeguard the product (Biosecurity). Development of table of specification, national level involvement, selection through entry test, custom-made curriculum. Construction of 50 questions, pre- and final post-assessment test ascertaining cognition level on the subject after completion of course. 15 questions for each session were also constructed to evaluate their initial cognition level and post session proficiency. There were eight contact sessions. Each session, pre- and post-assessments to ascertain impact of awareness. Overall result of pre-test assessment of 50 questions was 33.0%, post-test assessment was 90.7%, indicating overall elevation of awareness (57.7%). Analysis of results (pre- and post) through a paired t-test yielded highly significant P value of 0.000001. Likert scale for course and facilitator evaluation by Cronbach’s alpha, showed variables having maximum score > 0.8, indicating the high results for feedback evaluation. Proper awareness of lab workers is mandatory for Biorisk management in keeping them biosafe which is additional benefit in the wake of pandemic.