Assessment of Standard Precautions Adherence Among Laboratory Scientists in Diagnostic Microbiology Laboratories in Rivers State

Laboratory scientists working in diagnostic microbiology laboratories are occupationally exposed to a wide range of biological hazards and must consistently apply standard precautions to prevent laboratory-acquired infections and cross-contamination of specimens. This study assessed adherence to standard precautions among laboratory scientists in 12 public diagnostic microbiology laboratories in Rivers State, South South Nigeria. Structured observational checklists covering personal protective equipment use, safe sharps handling, hand hygiene, biological specimen handling, and decontamination procedures were administered over a six-week period. A self-administered knowledge and attitude questionnaire was also completed by 96 laboratory scientists. Facility biosafety audits documented availability of safety equipment and decontamination infrastructure. Results showed an overall standard precaution adherence rate of 54.2 percent, with hand hygiene compliance being the lowest domain (41.7%). PPE compliance was highest for glove use (81.3%) but markedly lower for facial protection (43.8%). Knowledge scores were adequate in 68.8 percent of respondents, indicating a knowledge-to-practice gap rather than a knowledge deficit. Facilities lacking functional biosafety cabinets had significantly lower adherence rates. The findings reveal significant occupational safety risks for laboratory scientists in Rivers State and emphasize the need for structured safety training, functional biosafety infrastructure, and institutional safety culture reinforcement. Keywords: standard precautions, laboratory scientists, biosafety, diagnostic microbiology, Rivers State.