Which group of personnel is required to have safety training for handling infectious materials?

The requirement for safety training in handling infectious materials applies to all personnel who work with potentially infectious materials. This includes anyone who might come into contact with these materials, as the risks associated with infectious agents can affect not just laboratory personnel, but the environment and public health as well.

Training ensures that all staff members, regardless of their specific role within the organization, are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, mitigate, and respond to hazards associated with infectious materials. This comprehensive approach helps to create a safer workplace while also ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices, which ultimately protects the health and safety of employees, patients, and the community.

Other groups, such as senior scientists, maintenance staff, or administrative staff, may interact with infectious materials but do not have the same level of exposure or risk as those directly handling these materials. Therefore, their training requirement is not equivalent to that of all personnel working directly with potentially infectious agents.