Hazard Identification
Overview
Hazard Identification is accomplished in the following ways:
- The AUHSP Working Group, includes the Biosafety Officer from EH&S, an occupational medicine professional from Gannett and a CARE veterinarian. The Group holds monthly meetings to evaluate all Protocol Review Forms for the Use of Vertebrate Animals and Animal Use Protocol Minor Amendment Forms submitted for IACUC approval, to identify occupational health and safety concerns. Facility inspections are conducted by facility managers, EH&S, CARE, and IACUC members. Review of animal disease and surveillance. Review of the Risk Assessment Form and medical evaluation of personnel if indicated, and the evaluation of accident reports submitted by individuals working with animals.
General Hazards When Using Animals
- Allergies
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Animal bites, kicks and scratches
Bites and scratches are the most common physical hazards encountered when working with animals, especially with dogs, cats, or rodents. Kicks and crushing injuries occur more frequently with larger species, such as horses or cows. In many cases, these physical hazards are preventable by following safe practices to ensure proper animal handling. An accident may appear to be inconsequential, but complications may result, due to contamination of the wound. Of special concern are venomous species, which require a comprehensive review of safety precautions and emergency care prior to handling. Recommendations on how to proceed in the case of an animal-related injury are provided in SOP 707.01 - Animal Related Injury. -
Sharps
Sharps pose a risk for personnel working with animals. Special care is needed when using needles and scalpel blades to avoid injuries. Puncture-resistant, leakproof disposal containers need to be available wherever sharps are used. Special recommendations on the safe handling and disposal of sharps are posted in SOP 711.01 - Sharps Precautions. -
Chemical Hazards
Chemical hazards such as disinfectants, fixatives, pesticides, anesthetic gases, as well as toxic chemicals, are commonly used for experimental purposes and require conscious handling. When using chemicals, personnel should wear appropriate protective equipment, and be familiar with the information summarized in the specific Material Safety Data Sheets. For recommendations on specific chemicals, consult with the Office of Laboratory and Chemical Safety of the Department of EH&S. -
Radiation
Radiation is another hazard for those exposed to X rays, gamma rays, or radioactive isotopes. Appropriate training and the use of personnel protective equipment are required. The Office of Radiation Safety of the Department of EH&S at Cornell University should be contacted for assistance before using radioactive materials in animal facilities or if an accidental exposure occurs. -
Noise
Animals, such as pigs or dogs, and equipment, like pressure washers or cage washers, can cause intense noise. Personnel exposed to noise levels exceeding 85 dBA must be part of the Hearing Conservation Program as legally mandated by the Federal Office of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). If engineering controls are not successful at mitigating the noise, hearing protection devices, such as earplugs or earmuffs, should be worn. Look here for additional information about the Hearing Conservation Program at Cornell University. -
Ergonomics
Repetitive motion and lifting of heavy loads can pose a hazard in animal facilities. Repetitive motion, such as cleaning cages by hand, results in the repetition of small stresses that may lead to cumulative injuries. Lifting heavy bags of food or large animals contribute to back injuries. Tasks must be varied to reduce the number of repetitions. Properly designed equipment should be used to assist with lifting of heavy loads. Refer to the Cornell University Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program site for more information.