THE IMPORTANCE OF BIOSAFETY IN CLINICAL LABORATORIES: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Clinical analysis laboratories are essential environments for disease diagnosis and monitoring; however, they present high occupational risks due to exposure to biological agents, chemical substances, and sharps. This systematic review aimed to analyze the importance of biosafety in clinical laboratories, highlighting main occupational risks, preventive practices, and adherence to safety standards. The search was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, and Google Scholar databases, covering publications from January 2016 to January 2026, following PRISMA guidelines. After screening, 15 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. The results showed that needlestick injuries, improper use of personal protective equipment, and inadequate waste management remain frequent issues. Biosafety practices were found to be effective in reducing occupational risks when properly implemented, although adherence remains inconsistent. It is concluded that strengthening institutional safety culture and continuous professional training are essential for the effectiveness of biosafety practices in clinical laboratories.