This program aims to protect those at Colgate University who are involved with the care and/or use of animals. In support of this goal, a Risk Assessment Questionnaire is required for all persons working with live vertebrate animals. Students whose exposure to animals is limited to classroom activities only are not required to complete the questionnaire.
The initial information submitted will establish a baseline of an individual’s health and will document potential exposure risks. Some individuals may be referred for a clinical examination or vaccination.
Related Policies and Programs
Employees are at risk of contracting infectious diseases each time they are exposed to bloodborne pathogens. Colgate's policy is to prevent exposure incidents whenever possible. To protect workers and to comply with OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, the university has established a Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.
Risk factors for the development of allergies include a family history of allergies, a history of seasonal allergies, and smoking. Common clinical symptoms of laboratory animal allergies include a rash and/or inflammation of the skin, nose, and eyes. Individuals who develop allergies to animals are at increased risk of developing asthma.
It is very important to report any allergy symptoms occurring with exposure to animals promptly in order to help prevent acute, life-threatening reactions and avoid chronic lung problems. There are many strategies and preventive techniques that can be implemented to accommodate individual susceptibilities or symptoms. The University is committed to working with its employees and students to protect their health and every effort will be made to accommodate individuals with animal allergies. The use of respirators or loose-fitting facemasks may help prevent the development of allergies.
The major sources of allergens are:
- animal bites, animal dander, and excretions
- airborne bedding dust
- cautery fumes
- other respiratory exposures
Exposure to allergens can be minimized by:
- wearing protective clothing and gloves when handling animals
- reducing exposure to airborne dust, dander, and cautery fumes
- practicing good personal hygiene
Work-related accidents, injuries, and illnesses must be reported as soon as possible via the forms provided below. Upon receipt, EHS will investigate the incident to ensure that no unsafe conditions exist and, when necessary, implement corrective actions. In the event of an emergency, call 911.
Animal bites or scratches should be immediately cleaned with warm, soapy water. Any symptoms should be taken seriously and immediately reported to a physician. The PI or supervisor must be informed as soon as possible so that they can provide assistance.
Hand washing is the most effective practice in reducing the potential of exposure to infectious material. Hand washing should be performed:
- at the start of the workday upon leaving for breaks, before meals, or after restroom breaks
- when returning to work
- after handling any live animal or animal tissue
- after handling any other potential source of contamination
Smoking, eating, drinking, and applying cosmetics and/or contact lenses are not permitted within the vivarium or in laboratory settings.
The Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy is designed to ensure all Colgate University staff and students have the appropriate level of protection during activities that present a potential hazard.
The Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) establishes respiratory protection requirements at Colgate University and describes all aspects pertaining to the safe use and maintenance of university-issued respirators. All respirators are issued through EHS (following a respirator medical evaluation and respirator fit test).
Zoonotic diseases are diseases that have the potential to be transmitted from animals to humans. They are uncommon in the laboratory setting but can have significant health consequences for personnel. Exposure to zoonotic diseases has been greatly decreased by the use of commercial animal vendors who have eliminated them from their colonies.
Persons most at risk are immunocompromised personnel and those who are pregnant. At-risk personnel are encouraged to discuss potential risks with their primary care physician.
Risks can be minimized by:
- using appropriate handling techniques when manipulating animals and their tissues
- wearing appropriate PPE
- utilizing appropriate personal hygiene practices
- following proper sharps (needles, scalpels, glassware) management practices
- Discard used sharps immediately after use in a designated sharps container
- Do not recap needles or improperly dispose of scalpels
- Do not overfill sharps containers
UC Davis and Princeton have very informatives guide to zoonoses by species.