Health and safety during animal handling
Health and safety during animal handling
Recognising Hazards and Assessing Risks
- Understanding potential hazards while handling animals is vital for safety.
- Always perform a risk assessment before working with animals.
- Recognise the various animal behaviours, as some might be signs of potential threat.
- Understand the zoonotic diseases, which are diseases transmitted from animals to humans.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Appropriate PPE, including gloves, masks, and aprons, can help protect against animal scratches, bites, and diseases passed through bodily fluids.
- Footwear is crucial to prevent injuries caused by heavy animals stepping on your feet or dropped equipment.
- Protective eye gear is advisable when handling certain animals or performing procedures that might lead to splashes of dirt or bodily fluids.
Hygiene Practices
- Hand hygiene is fundamental. Thorough and regular hand washing can prevent transmission of many diseases.
- Regular sanitisation of tools, workbenches, and animal enclosures helps maintain a disease-free environment.
- Discard waste material safely and promptly to avoid cross-contamination and spread of parasites or diseases.
Safe Handling Techniques
- Use the correct handling techniques for different animals to avoid inflicting harm on both the handler and animal.
- Never rush or force an animal; allow them to move at their own pace.
- Be aware of any necessary restraint techniques for specific animals.
Emergency Provisions
- Have an understanding of first aid, including how to treat minor injuries like scratches or bites.
- Know the procedures for major incidents like animal attacks.
- Have emergency contact numbers readily available, including vets and relevant managers or supervisors.
Understanding Legislation
- Be aware of the laws and animal welfare legislation related to animal handling procedures.
- Follow codes of practice and guidelines provided by organisations like the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and the British Veterinary Association (BVA).