Electronic Device Use in the Laboratory: The Keys to Safety

In today’s tech-savvy world, it is nearly impossible to walk into any environment without encountering personal electronic devices. Laboratories, unfortunately, are no exception. While smartphones, earbuds, and smartwatches have become integral to our daily lives, their presence in a laboratory setting can introduce a variety of hazards and infection control issues. This technology is not going away, and there are challenges to integrating it safely into the lab setting. Here are some key considerations for addressing these challenges:

3 main safety risks posed by electronic devices

1. Distractions

Electronic devices are notorious for diverting attention. In a laboratory, where precision and concentration are paramount, the use of cell phones or other gadgets can lead to dangerous distractions. A momentary glance at a text message or social media notification can result in missed critical steps in a procedure, leading to errors, accidents, and even compromised results.

2. Contamination

Contamination of personal devices is a vital consideration that lab employees tend to ignore. Using these items in a laboratory increases the risk of cross-contamination between personal items and laboratory materials. This not only potentially affects the accuracy of experimental outcomes in some labs, but it also poses a risk to the health of laboratorians if hazardous substances are inadvertently transferred to everyday items.

3. Compromised infection control

Infection control is a cornerstone of laboratory safety. The introduction of personal electronic devices into the laboratory environment can compromise these efforts. Pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi can easily be transferred to and adhere to the surfaces of smartphones, earbuds, and smartwatches. When these devices are handled in the lab, the potential for contamination and subsequent infection rises. Laboratory acquired infections (LAIs) are grossly under-reported, but there have been incidents where employees have been infected and even hospitalized due to using items in the laboratory and bringing them to their homes.¹ Bringing contaminated cell phones and smartwatches from the laboratory to home also puts lab professionals’ family members at risk of infections and illnesses if they handle these devices.

How to reduce the risks of electronic devices in the lab

To mitigate the risks associated with electronic devices in the laboratory, it is essential to implement clear policies and best practices. Develop safety policies and procedures surrounding such devices with employees and leadership in order to engender buy-in and understanding. Once procedures are established, provide education and enforce the written policies.

One option is to implement a strict policy that prohibits the use of personal electronic devices within the laboratory. Clearly communicate the rationale behind this rule, emphasizing the potential hazards and infection control issues. Make sure all staff members are aware of and adhere to this policy.

Designate specific areas outside of the main laboratory space where personnel can safely use their electronic devices. These areas should be equipped with sanitizing stations to ensure hands are cleaned before and after handling devices. This approach helps to contain potential contaminants and minimizes the risk of introducing pathogens into the lab.

Encourage regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers before and after touching any electronic devices. Reinforce the importance of hand hygiene as a critical component of infection control, not only for personal safety but also for the safety of colleagues and the integrity of laboratory work. Unsafe infection control practices carried out by one employee can affect many others.

Discuss the regular cleaning and disinfection of electronic devices with personnel. Provide guidelines on effective disinfectants that are safe for use on electronics, and encourage staff to incorporate device cleaning into their routine. For shared laboratory devices, ensure that cleaning is performed between uses to prevent cross-contamination.

When electronic devices must be used in the lab

The need for electronic devices in today’s lab settings is increasing. Analyzer field service representatives may ask for pictures when instruments fail to function properly. Safety audits with associated photos can be conducted more rapidly and reports can be generated sooner. The need for portable communication may exist for staff who work in more than one area of the laboratory. If such needs exist, labs should provide electronic devices that fit the bill. Utilize tablets that remain inside the laboratory and are handled with gloves. Purchase portable headsets that can be kept in the department and disinfected when the shift is over.

When the use of electronic devices does become necessary for laboratory work, such as for other processes like accessing protocols or recording data, ensure that they are used responsibly. Implement measures such as using stylus pens instead of fingers, and keeping devices in protective covers that can be easily disinfected.

Managing electronic device addiction

Understanding the addictive nature of electronic devices is crucial for developing a realistic and effective management strategy in the lab setting. A blanket device ban is likely to lead to resistance and non-compliance. Sean Kaufman, a human behaviorist and expert in infectious disease management who is also the CEO and founding partner of Safer Behaviors, suggests that lab leaders consider incorporating scheduled “e-breaks” into the laboratory workday. These breaks allow staff to check their devices in a controlled manner, satisfying their need for connectivity while maintaining a safe and focused laboratory environment.

In order to make such a practice work, labs can designate specific times during the day for e-breaks, such as mid-morning, lunch, and mid-afternoon. Ensure these breaks are brief and structured to prevent prolonged time away from work. Ensure e-breaks are taken in designated clean areas, away from the main laboratory space. This helps contain any potential contaminants and maintains the integrity of the lab environment. Encourage staff to use e-breaks not just for device use but also as a mental break to refresh and recharge. This can enhance overall productivity and well-being for all staff.

Safety first

Managing and preventing electronic device use in the laboratory is a critical aspect of maintaining a safe and efficient work environment. By understanding the potential hazards and infection control issues associated with these devices, and implementing clear policies and best practices, laboratories can mitigate risks and ensure the safety of personnel and the integrity of their work. Incorporating strategies such as designated and separate device zones, regular disinfection protocols, and even scheduled e-breaks can help balance the need for connectivity with the demands of a dynamic laboratory department. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and a proactive approach is key to fostering a culture of safety and excellence in the laboratory.

References:

1. https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/salmonella/typhimurium-labs-06-14/index.html