Biosafety in the work performance of workers exposed to biological risks

Introduction: Occupational biological risk is the probability that workers will suffer health damage from contact or exposure to biological agents. To prevent occupational diseases, workers need biosafety knowledge that enables them to develop appropriate attitudes and practices in their work. Objective: To determine the level of biosafety knowledge, attitudes, and practices of workers exposed to biological risks at the National Center for Minimally Access Surgery. Methods: A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted. The study population consisted of 198 workers exposed to biological risks at the institution. Using simple random sampling, the sample consisted of 98 workers. A performance observation guide was applied, allowing for the assessment of variables using the designed qualitative scale, considering the positive value for each variable studied. Results: 71.9% of the respondents rated their level of knowledge as insufficient, while 65.3% rated their attitudes and appropriate practices regarding biosafety as insufficient, and 59.7% rated their attitudes and appropriate practices regarding biosafety as insufficient. The most affected variables were insufficient knowledge for identifying risks in the workplace and managing hospital waste, as well as inadequate response to accidents involving biological agents. Conclusions: Workers exposed to biological risks at the National Center for Minimally Access Surgery (CMS) have insufficient knowledge, attitudes, and appropriate practices in biosafety to prevent occupational accidents and diseases while on the job.