Strengthening laboratory biosafety and biosecurity capacity under WHO standards in Nepal

Gandaki and Lumbini provinces - The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), with support from WHO Country Office for Nepal, conducted two batches of trainings on laboratory biosafety, biosecurity and bio-risk assessment based on the fourth edition of the WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual (LBM4) in Gandaki and Lumbini provinces. Participants strengthened their capacity in laboratory biosafety risk assessment; correct use of personal protective equipment, including N95 fit testing; safe handling and transportation of infectious substances; laboratory waste management; and biological spill management. Implemented by the National Public Health Laboratory under MoHP, the programme trained 16 laboratory personnel from provincial public health laboratories and health-care centres in each province. The training promoted global standards for safe laboratory practices, emphasizing a risk-based approach to the effective integration of biosafety and biosecurity measures. This approach contributes to preventing the spread of infections, including those caused by drug-resistant pathogens, strengthening national preparedness, and reducing the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance. WHO will continue to support similar training programmes in the remaining provinces to ensure uniform capacity nationwide. The trainings were made possible with support from the Pandemic Fund and the WHO Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Partnership Contribution (PIP PC) Fund.