Final answer:
Improper handling of lab specimens can result in contamination, inaccurate results, and data loss; it's critical to adhere to safety protocols to maintain experiment integrity and prevent infection spread.
Step-by-step explanation:
Improper handling of lab specimens can result in contamination of samples, inaccurate test results, and loss of valuable data. These consequences align with the primary hazards mentioned for BSL 1 and 2 laboratories such as accidental skin punctures, mucous membrane exposure, and accidental ingestion. Moreover, mishandling can lead to the spreading of infections and contaminate the environment due to the presence of live organisms in samples. Following protocols are therefore essential for safety and to ensure the integrity of the experiments.