WS8: RISK ASSESMENT AND COMMUNICATION IN PUBLIC HEALTH
Dr Natasha K. Griffith
Chief Quality and Safety Systems Branch
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta, USA

Global health is an international effort that depends on the local response of public health and clinical laboratories that function as the first line of defense during a pandemic response. Coordination of biosafety and biosecurity within laboratories and across borders is challenged by the ever-increasing array of 21st century health threats posed by emerging infectious diseases and new technologies. Furthermore, public health and clinical laboratories are unique environments in which the hazards associated with diagnostic specimens are often unknown. As a result, public health and clinical laboratories regularly encounter newly emerging and reemerging infectious agents during routine operations. The traditional guidance for biosafety in a clinical laboratory setting emphasizes the use of traditional BSL-2 facilities and Standard Precautions; however, this may not be sufficient certain conditions. Risk assessment is the foundation for determining under what conditions work should be conducted and communication of the risks present is vital to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis. However, due to the nature and breadth of work performed in clinical laboratories, the risk assessment process requires a unique approach.

This course will promote a biorisk management style approach to biosafety in clinical laboratories that emphasizes the importance of

1. conducting activity and laboratory specific risk assessments,
2. communicating relevant to key stakeholders,
3. implementing mitigation measures based on the risks present in a clinical laboratory setting, and
4. integrating a rigorous training and performance evaluation process that embraces continual assessment and improvement.

Instructional methods will incorporate lecture, interactive activities, and case studies. This course will review risk assessment and communication for international implementation of biosafety and biosecurity in the global health response to infectious disease. Students will gain an appreciation of risk assessment approach and the importance of risk communication to all relevant stakeholders that play a role in a facility’s biorisk management program.

Course objectives:

1. Understand what is risk assessment and communication and why should we care
2. Understand theories and ways for effective risk assessment and communication
3. Communicate relevant risks within public health and clinical laboratories settings
4. Practice risk assessment and communication skills