As the province enters its third lockdown due to COVID-19, we may all be feeling added strain and anxiousness. Workers may also be experiencing pandemic fatigue, leading to distraction or to skipped steps in laboratory procedures.
‘A hazard is still a hazard’
The biosafety program would like to remind laboratory personnel that the materials and procedures you are working with come with risks. Proper procedures, risk assessments and safety measures for research projects protect the worker and so, it is important to continue to be diligent with implementing safety practices and protocols. A hazard is still a hazard.
Supervision and training necessary even during limited capacity
With labs currently at limited capacity due to provincial restrictions, supervisors should ensure that an on-site supervisor is available to oversee procedures of new trainees. New trainees should not be left unsupervised until they have been deemed competent in learned procedures. Read more about generic and site-specific training.
If you are in need of assistance, you can discuss with your supervisor, the biosafety program, or use resources provided by the employee assistance program.
