Occupational Health and Safety in Biotechnological Processes: A Review and Future Directions

Abstract

An option to change partially or completely conventional chemical methods is a biotechnological process. It enables the development of environmentally friendly and innovative means. The safety of this process has not been fully examined, thus, the lack of awareness about risk management is a great concern. This work aims to elucidate the importance of recognizing, assessing, and controlling potential risks, and developing appropriate risk management to develop bioprocesses safely. For this purpose, qualitative research was carried out through scientific studies and current legislation. Safe development of biotechnological procedures allows for occupational safety throughout the processes. It was observed that control measures should be adopted to obtain a safe work environment for everyone. These measures can be carried out through anticipation, recognition, assessment, and control of existing risks or that may exist in the process. Also, it was found that the involvement of all adequate risk management is fundamental. Therefore, biotechnological processes must be developed safely for workers, the environment, and society.