I. SCOPE

Personnel can be exposed to biological, chemical, and health hazards when working with animals.   This procedure defines the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) to be used in the animal facilities.   These measures are endorsed by Employee Health Services, Environmental Services, and Division of Laboratory Animal Resources (DLAR) to address basic concerns for employee health, safety, and animal health, respectively.

II. GENERAL

A.    Minimum PPE is not to be construed as the only measure to be taken.   It is superseded by Employee Health Services, Environmental Services, and University specific policies and standard operating procedures promulgated for specific tasks or hazardous operations.

B.    PPE consistent with DLAR standard procedures will be posted at the entrance to each animal facility or animal room.

C.    Training in the use of PPE is the responsibility of Environmental Services and DLAR.

D.   To reduce potential tripping, crushing, scraping, cutting and puncture injuries to feet, foot-hugging, low-heeled shoes constructed of leather or rugged synthetic material so that the entire foot from toe to heel is covered at least to the lower ankle must be used.   DLAR employees must wear approved safety shoes within the animal facility.

III. SPECIFIC

Appendix A defines the minimum PPE for use by personnel working with common laboratory animals and in other high-risk areas, such as soiled cagewash and necropsy rooms of DLAR animal facilities.

Appendix A

NOTES:

1. The outer garment must be either washable or disposable, have long sleeves, and be able to protect the front and side surfaces of the uniform or street clothes.   Disposable required for barrier and clean rooms.

2. Safety glasses are mandatory for dirty cages wash, primate work, and BSL 3. Safety shoes are mandatory for DLAR employees.

3. The hair cover can be a bonnet style at minimum.   The goal is to minimize loose or hanging hair that might be a safety hazard and to limit exposure of hair to allergens and animal dander.

4. Shoe covers do not need to be waterproof except for cage wash or wet areas.

5. Gloves of several different types should be available to accommodate persons who are allergic or hypersensitive to glove materials.