Automated laboratory with advanced robotic safety features.

Lab Safety Revolution: Are Automated Systems Really Safer?

Jordan Keane in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"A Critical Look at Bloodborne Pathogen Contamination in Today's Automated Laboratories"

In modern healthcare, automation has transformed laboratory practices, promising enhanced efficiency and accuracy. However, this progress brings new challenges, particularly concerning safety. As laboratories adopt Total Lab Automation (TLA) systems, the risk of contamination, especially from bloodborne pathogens, becomes a focal point. Recent studies and expert opinions highlight the critical need to evaluate and improve safety measures in these automated environments.

The discussion surrounding lab automation and safety isn't new. Experts like Dr. Jack Zakowski have voiced the importance of integrating robust safety features into TLA systems. This call to action emphasizes the need for manufacturers to prioritize safety in the design and implementation of automated solutions.

This article aims to delve into the ongoing discussion about safety in automated laboratories, focusing on the risks associated with bloodborne pathogens and the innovative solutions being explored to mitigate these risks. It seeks to provide a balanced perspective, drawing from scientific research and expert insights, to inform and engage a broad audience concerned with healthcare safety and technological advancements.

The Core Concern: Bloodborne Pathogen Contamination

Automated laboratory with advanced robotic safety features.

Bloodborne pathogens pose a significant threat in laboratory settings. Contamination can occur when handling samples, particularly in areas where open sample tubes are present. While automation aims to reduce manual handling, it doesn't eliminate the risk entirely. The design of automated systems must, therefore, ensure that potential contamination points are minimized and properly contained.

A key point of discussion is whether automated systems are inherently safer than manual processes. While automation reduces human error and exposure, it introduces new challenges related to system design and maintenance. For instance, if automated systems aren't properly disinfected or if safety features are lacking, they can become sources of contamination.

System Design: Ensuring that automated systems have enclosed environments to prevent the escape of pathogens.
Disinfection Protocols: Implementing regular and effective disinfection procedures to eliminate potential contaminants.
Staff Training: Providing comprehensive training for laboratory staff on the proper use and maintenance of automated systems.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Emphasizing the importance of using appropriate PPE to minimize exposure risks.

The exchange between researchers and experts like Dr. Zakowski underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive safety measures. It’s not enough to assume that automation inherently provides safety; instead, continuous evaluation and improvement are necessary to ensure the well-being of laboratory personnel and the integrity of diagnostic processes.

Looking Ahead: Innovations in Laboratory Safety

The future of laboratory safety lies in continuous innovation and a commitment to proactive risk management. As TLA systems evolve, manufacturers must prioritize safety features, incorporating automated disinfection steps and antiviral surfaces. Additionally, ongoing research and collaboration between experts and laboratory staff are essential to identify and address emerging safety challenges. By embracing a culture of safety and innovation, laboratories can harness the benefits of automation while ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1080/21548331.1967.11706610, Alternate LINK

Title: Letters To The Editor

Subject: General Medicine

Journal: Hospital Practice

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Authors: Arvey I. Rogers, Nanette K. Wenger

Published: 1967-08-01

Everything You Need To Know

How has Total Lab Automation impacted lab safety, especially regarding bloodborne pathogen contamination?

Total Lab Automation, or TLA, has indeed increased efficiency and accuracy in laboratory practices. However, it also introduces challenges related to bloodborne pathogen contamination. While automation reduces manual handling, the design and maintenance of these automated systems become critical. Without proper disinfection protocols and robust safety features, TLA systems can become potential sources of contamination, emphasizing the need for vigilant safety measures.

Why are bloodborne pathogens a major concern in automated lab settings, and what specific measures are necessary to address this risk?

Bloodborne pathogens pose a significant threat in laboratory environments, especially when handling samples in areas with open sample tubes. In the context of automation, minimizing and containing potential contamination points within automated systems is crucial. The design of Total Lab Automation systems should incorporate enclosed environments and effective disinfection procedures to mitigate the risk of bloodborne pathogen exposure.

What are the key components of a comprehensive safety strategy in automated laboratories?

Ensuring the safety of automated laboratories involves several key elements. These include the system design itself, which should prioritize enclosed environments to prevent pathogen escape. Equally important are the disinfection protocols that must be regularly and effectively implemented to eliminate contaminants. Comprehensive staff training on the proper use and maintenance of Total Lab Automation systems, along with the consistent use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), are also essential for minimizing exposure risks.

Who is Dr. Jack Zakowski, and what is his perspective on the importance of safety in Total Lab Automation?

Dr. Jack Zakowski is one of the experts who emphasizes the integration of robust safety features into Total Lab Automation systems. His perspective highlights the need for manufacturers to prioritize safety in the design and implementation of automated solutions. The ongoing dialogue between researchers, experts like Dr. Zakowski, and laboratory staff is vital for continuous evaluation and improvement of safety measures, ensuring the well-being of laboratory personnel and the integrity of diagnostic processes.

What future innovations and practices will drive improved safety in automated laboratories using Total Lab Automation systems?

The future of laboratory safety relies on ongoing innovation and proactive risk management. As Total Lab Automation systems advance, manufacturers should prioritize safety features, such as automated disinfection steps and antiviral surfaces. Furthermore, continuous research and collaboration between experts and laboratory staff are necessary to identify and address emerging safety challenges. Embracing a culture of safety and innovation is essential for harnessing the benefits of automation while ensuring a safe environment for all.