IACUC Occupational Health and Safety Program | Office of Research Compliance | SIU

It is not uncommon for individuals working with laboratory animals to experience allergies related to their exposure. Pre-existing allergic conditions such as hay fever, eczema, or pet allergies can potentially increase the likelihood of developing allergies to laboratory animals or other species. Allergies to rodents is common, as is cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs or farm animals. Individuals may experience an immediate reaction or may become sensitive to animal allergens with repeated exposure. 

Direct contact or inhalation of allergens can trigger allergic reactions to hair, dander, saliva, and the urine of animals. Rodent urine, in particular, is highly allergenic, and activities like cleaning cages can lead to increased exposure. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, or hives. In some cases, symptoms may progress to asthma, and rarely, severe reactions like anaphylaxis can occur.

Latex gloves can also pose an allergy risk, causing mild contact dermatitis or severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. 

If an individual has pre-existing allergies or experiences symptoms associated with animal contact, it is advisable to consult a medical professional. Reducing exposure may help alleviate symptoms or prevent the development of more severe reactions. 

Additional information on risks and mitigation strategies can be found by visiting the following website(s): 

• NIOSH Alert: Preventing Asthma in Animal Handlers

A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be transmitted between animals and humans. The transmission of zoonotic diseases can occur through various means, such as touching an animal or coming into contact with its blood, tissue, urine, feces, or other bodily fluids. Contaminated surfaces that have been in contact or their by-products also pose a risk. Needle stick injuries, scratches, or bites from animals carry a particular danger. Additionally, disease transmission can happen through contact with animal carcasses or their bedding. Airborne transmission and contact with mucous membranes are other routes of transmission. 

Most of these diseases can be prevented by practicing personal hygiene measures. Thoroughly washing hands after any contact with animals, animal products, waste, bedding, or carcasses is essential. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves or masks is often recommended. Eating, drinking, smoking, applying contact lenses, or applying makeup must be avoided in areas where animals or their products are present. Wearing dedicated clothing or a lab coat and closed-toed shoes are additional precautions that should be taken. 

Individuals with compromised immune systems, individuals who have undergone radiation,  chemotherapy, or organ transplants, and individuals taking certain cortisone-type drugs may be more susceptible to zoonotic diseases. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to contact your medical professional before working with animals. 

Additional information on risks and mitigation strategies can be found by visiting the following websites: 

• CDC Zoonotic Diseases
• University of California, Davis - Risk Analysis Tool

Tetanus, commonly known as "lockjaw," is an infection caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani, a type of gram-positive anaerobic bacteria that forms spores. These spores are present in the environment, such as soil, dust, and manure. The spores can enter the body through puncture wounds or scratches. Tetanus causes painful muscle spasms and can be fatal. Mitigation stratgies include up-to-date tetanus immunization and appropriate wound care. 

Additional information on risks and mitigation strategies can be found by visiting the following website(s): 

• CDC Tetanus information webpage

When working with animals, there is always the potential risk of bites, scratches, or other injuries. While employing proper animal handling techniques can help minimize this risk, it is important to acknowledge that injuries can still occur. Use standard first aid for any wound, including washing the wound thoroughly. Seek medical attention as necessary. 

Improper handling and disposal of sharps, such as needles, scalpels, and glass, can pose risks to personnel. In research settings, these sharps may be contaminated with animal blood, body fluids, or unknown substances. It is essential to consider them as potential hazards and take necessary precautions. To ensure the safety of personnel and prevent unauthorized use or environmental contamination, proper disposal procedures must be followed. The following standard guidelines are suggested when working with/around sharps:

• Customize safety practices for the laboratory and document them in the lab's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Minimize handling of sharps to reduce the likelihood of accidents.
• Use adequate restraint techniques when working with an animal.
• Always carry sharps in a designated container rather than holding them in your hand or pocket.
• Do not recap needles or remove them from syringes after use.
• Dispose of all sharps immediately into a designated sharps container. Ensure you have a container with you in the area you are working.
• Use an approved sharps container solely for sharps disposal to avoid confusion (e.g., mistaking it for a lunch container). Seal the container before it reaches its full capacity. Instead of trying to force more sharps in, obtain a new container when the old one is approximately three-quarters full.

By following these procedures, the risks associated with sharps can be mitigated, ensuring the safety of personnel and preventing environmental contamination.