From March 9-11, 2026, the Center for Health System Strengthening (CfHSS) in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS)-Clinical Engineering Department (CED) with funding support from the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) through the Korea International Corporation Agency (KOICA), successfully conducted a three-day Basic Biosafety Cabinet (BSC) Maintenance Training for biomedical engineers across Ghana. The training took place at Kumasi South Hospital and focused on enhancing laboratory safety, operational knowledge, and maintenance practices for biological safety cabinets.
Training Overview
The three-day program was designed to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to maintain and operate BSCs safely and effectively:
Day 1 – Introduction and Theoretical Foundations
Participants were introduced to the principles of biosafety, the structure and function of BSCs, and relevant laboratory standards by Mr. Jacob Arthur-Quarm (Laboratory Scientist and Biocontainment Consultant) and Mr. Alfred Quao (Biomedical Engineer, CED-GHS) as facilitators. The session included pre-training assessments to gauge baseline knowledge.
Theory of Biosafety Cabinets, presented by Mr. Arthur-Quarm
Day 2 – Hands-On Practical Training
The second day focused on practical skills, where participants learned to inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot BSCs. Participants worked directly on the equipment under facilitator supervision, consolidating their understanding through real-world application.
Practical Session with Participants
Day 3 – Assessment, Discussion, and Certification
On the final day, participants were grouped to assess BSCs at Kumasi South Hospital, applying the skills acquired. Group presentations highlighted operational observations, maintenance requirements, and biosafety practices. Discussions followed to review findings and reinforce best practices. The training concluded with certificate presentations recognizing the participants’ successful completion of the program.
Discussions and certification
Participants and Scope
The training brought together 18 biomedical engineers from across the country, representing diverse public health and laboratory facilities. The program combined lectures, demonstrations, group work, and hands-on exercises to ensure comprehensive learning.
Acknowledgements
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the participants for their engagement and commitment, and to our funders and partners, whose support made this training possible. Together, we continue to strengthen laboratory safety standards and capacity within Ghana’s health system.
Looking Ahead
This training marks a significant step towards enhancing biosafety practices in Ghanaian laboratories. CfHSS remains committed to building local capacity, promoting safe laboratory environments, and supporting the professional development of biomedical engineers.
Gallery
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