This Code of Ethics applies to Biomedical Laboratory Scientists worldwide.
Biomedical Laboratory Scientists have the responsibility to contribute from their sphere of professional competence to the general well-being of the community.
The Code of Ethics serves as a resource for the profession and as guidance for individuals in everyday practice and in challenging situations. It also provides society with assurance that Biomedical Laboratory Scientists (BLS) practice their profession in an ethically sound manner.
Duty to the Global Society
- Biomedical Laboratory Scientists shall:
- Be dedicated to applying biomedical laboratory science for the benefit of humanity
- Conduct biomedical research to advance and improve global public health
- Take responsibility for establishing new standards and enhancing existing ones to improve laboratory practice and patient safety
- Demonstrate leadership and accountability in addressing both global and local environmental issues.
- Promote international collaboration by sharing knowledge and best practices - ensuring equitable diagnostic support for populations with limited access to healthcare and laboratory facilities.
- Update Scientific knowledge and technical skills on a continual basis to address emerging diseases and evolving global health challenges.
- Contribute to global readiness for pandemics, outbreaks, and health emergencies by supporting surveillance systems, rapid diagnostics, and coordinated response efforts.
Duty to the Patient/Client
- Biomedical Laboratory Scientists shall:
- Be responsible for the entire analytical process, from specimen collection to final reporting of test results
- Be accountable for the quality and integrity of biomedical laboratory services
- Exercise professional judgment, skill and care while meeting international standards
- Maintain strict confidentiality of patient/client information and results of laboratory analysis
- Safeguard the dignity and privacy of patients/clients
- Apply scientific advances to benefit patient/client and improve the delivery of laboratory results
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate interpretation and appropriate application of laboratory findings for patient care
- Identify potential risks or errors that may compromise patient safety and take appropriate action to prevent harm.
- Provide guidance to patients/clients and other healthcare providers on specimen collection, test selection, and results interpretation within the scope of practice.
- Adhere to safety protocols and Good Laboratory Practices to protect patients/clients and fellow laboratory personnel at all times
Duty to the Profession and other Members of the Healthcare Team
- Biomedical Laboratory Scientists shall:
- Promote and uphold ethical conduct within the profession by adhering to ethical standards, maintaining the dignity of the profession, and demonstrating honesty, integrity, and reliability
- Continuously enhance professional skills and knowledge
- Actively foster cooperative and harmonious working relationships with other healthcare professionals
- Provide expertise, guidance, teaching, and mentorship to students, colleagues and other healthcare professionals
- Adhere to workplace policies, laws and legislations provided they do not conflict with professional ethical standards
- Foster a positive work environment that promotes mutual respect, open communication, inclusivity and equity across laboratory personnel and other members of the healthcare team.
Code of Ethics for Biomedical Laboratory Scientists were first adopted by IAMLT in Dublin 1992, and revised by IFBLS in May 2026.
