Simulation-Based Training for Biosafety: Strengthening Collective Biosafety Competence in Laboratory Teams

Traditional biosafety training has largely focused on regulatory compliance and procedural knowledge, but these approaches do not always fully reflect the operational complexity of contemporary laboratory practice. Laboratory environments increasingly require communication, coordination, and team-based decision-making, where safety depends not only on individual competence but also on collective processes. This commentary introduces the concept of collective biosafety competence, defined as the capacity of laboratory teams to recognize hazards, communicate effectively, and coordinate decisions that support safe laboratory operations. Drawing on evidence from simulation-based training in other high-risk professional domains, the article argues that simulation-oriented approaches may provide practical opportunities to develop these competencies. By creating structured environments for reflection, communication, and collaborative decision-making, simulation-based approaches may complement traditional training and help strengthen the collective dimensions of biosafety practice. Integrating such approaches into biosafety programs may better prepare laboratory teams for complex operational environments.