INTRODUCTION
A major purpose of an occupational health and safety program is to minimize risks associated with hazards in the workplace. Although potential hazards continually emerge from new research techniques and new animal models, some common hazards are known.
Some of these known hazards will be discussed in this course. Because of the diversity of research programs, you should consult with your OHS Officer and the attending veterinarian for more comprehensive information on known and emerging hazards at your institution. Also, the manual "Occupational Health and Safety in the Care and Use of Research Animals" is an excellent reference that you should read. This publication is available from the National Academy Press at 800-624-6242.
Information on physical hazards, allergens and zoonosis associated with working with lab animals will be discussed in this course as well as some common protective procedures for minimizing associated risks.