Availability of a Continuity of Operations Plan Toolkit for Public Health Mycobacteriology Laboratories.

Abstract

Interruption of service events may result in a temporary inability to use equipment or laboratory space, compromise staffing and infrastructure, preclude maintenance or calibration of equipment, and prevent or require extensive disinfection and decontamination. A continuity of operations plan allows a mycobacteriology laboratory to shift efficiently from its regular structure to one that enables timely continuation of testing services. The Continuity of Operations Plan Toolkit for Public Health Mycobacteriology Laboratories was developed to aid continuity of operations planning for mycobacteriology laboratories that offer testing services for diagnosing tuberculosis. The toolkit includes processes for creating, modifying, or implementing mycobacteriology continuity of operations plans, including considerations for leveraging partnerships. Available within the toolkit are various templates and checklists which can be adapted to meet specific local needs. While intended for public health laboratories, the toolkit is applicable for clinical, commercial, and other laboratory types that may perform tuberculosis testing.