Publication:

Assessment of cryogenic safety practices, exposure and occupational hazards in embryology laboratories of IVF clinics in Abuja, Nigeria

Background Assisted reproductive technology (ART) laboratories have cryogenic storage, which allows the long-term storage of gametes and embryos using liquid nitrogen in place of short-term storage. Although it is essential, cryogenic operations are known to create serious occupational hazards to the laboratory staff where there are no adequate safety measures. The study evaluated cryogenic safety practices, pattern of exposure, occupational hazards and compliance pattern among embryology laboratory staff in Abuja, Nigeria in vitro fertilizations (IVF) clinics.

Methods A cross-sectional study of embryology lab staff in Abuja in selected IVF clinics was done in a descriptive study. The respondents filled a self-administered, structured questionnaire, which included data on cryogenic safety practices, exposure to cryogenic hazards and history of accidents. Frequencies and percentages were summarised using descriptive statistics. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify underlying dimensions of cryogenic safety compliance across measured safety practices.

Results The majority (90.24%) of respondents were directly involved in cryogenic storage, handling or supervision. 58.54% reported direct exposure to cryogenic liquids and 34.15% reported cryogenic related laboratory accidents. Principal component analysis identified two distinct dimensions of cryogenic safety compliance, reflecting procedural-behavioral practices and equipment monitoring activities.

Conclusions High levels of staff exposure to cryogenic systems coexist with inconsistent engineering controls and uneven adherence to safety practices. The multidimensional compliance structure identified highlights the need for cryogenic safety management strategies that address both behavioral–procedural compliance and equipment monitoring practices in ART laboratories.