The Changing Landscape of Automation in the Practice of Diagnostic Medical Microbiology: But What about Safety?

The clinical microbiology laboratory is undergoing a transformation in diagnostic testing as result of entering the “machine” or “robotic” age with the development and availability of automation, primarily molecular-based multiplex instruments and total laboratory automation. Automation provides substantial benefits to the laboratory, administrators, clinician, and, ultimately, patient. Major benefits include faster and more accurate results, improved workflow efficiency, high-throughput testing, reduction of laboratory costs, reduction of human error, and, for the most part, saving valuable space. Although the benefits are welcome, the issue of safety, especially how to effectively decontaminate (sterilize) the internal compartments and components of these devices, is in need of resolution. An instrument that is contaminated with blood, body fluids, and other liquid specimens that may contain a virulent pathogen, such as Ebola virus or a biothreat agent, represents a safety hazard to personnel and the environment.