Laboratory animal allergy
Unfortunately, allergies to laboratory animals cannot be completely prevented. The following applies to minimize the occurrence and inconvenience of laboratory animal allergies, in accordance with the requirements of AFS 1990: 11 Work with laboratory animals.
Manager's responsibility in work with laboratory animals
• Work must be planned and performed so that staff are not exposed to unnecessary contact with allergens.
• A risk assessment must always be made before any attempt is made (documented in writing).
• The employer must ensure that the employee has sufficient knowledge of the risks that the work can entail.
• The employer must assess the need for vaccination and other immune prophylaxis and, if necessary, offer the worker this.
• The employer must provide workers with medical checks for work with laboratory animals before work commences (carried out at occupational health care).
• The employer must provide adequate protective equipment.
• Written handling and safety instructions should be readily available at the workplace.
The head of department or the person who has been assigned delegated work environment tasks is responsible for the above being implemented and followed.
Employees & students' responsibilities in work with laboratory animals
• Follow the internal procedures and rules that apply within KM
• Use the protective equipment provided
• Report deficiencies and risks to their immediate manager / supervisor