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1 essment Assessment fety ty ty ty k Assessment fety afety ent sk Assessment Animal Allergy including that to Laboratory Animals Policy and Guidance R sk Asse Risk Ass Risk As Risk Assessm afety and Division May 2004

2 Contents Page number 1 Introduction surveillance Assessment of risk and exposure Management, audit and monitoring Training in working practices and provision of information to staff and students Overview of standard operating procedures (SOPS) Handling and transport of animals Cleaning of cages and rooms Protective clothing and respiratory protection for work with laboratory animals Allergen exposure resulting from work with arthropods (includes insects) Procedures for rooms in laboratory areas where work with animals is to be done Assessment of risk and exposure to large animals Appendices A Laboratory animal allergy audit sheet B Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Face fit testing C Examples of standard operating procedures (SOPS) D Allergy to laboratory animals Information from the University Occupational Service...37 Review: no later than May 2006

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4 1. Introduction The information contained in the and Executive (HSE) Guidance Note: EH76 Control of laboratory animal allergy is pertinent to work in the University of Cambridge and the advice contained therein should be followed. The information in this document gives the local dimension. It must be stressed that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including respiratory protective equipment (RPE) must be worn in all cases unless derogation is approved. This will be determined by risk assessment in consultation with appropriate people. 1.1 Laboratory animal material causing allergy as a substance hazardous to health Allergy to laboratory animals and other animal materials is relatively common. It is a hypersensitivity or allergic response, which develops as a result of repeated exposure to allergens. The prevalence of occupational allergy is 40% in some groups of laboratory animal workers, and about 10% of these workers may have symptoms of occupational asthma. These allergens are most commonly derived from animal secretions and excretions. During normal work activity in animal units, allergens are deposited on to animal fur, feathers and cages, and may then become airborne as a result of both animal and human activity. Symptoms can be provoked by inhalation of allergen or by allergen introduced into a break in the skin caused by scratches, bites or instruments. Urine, fur, hair, dander, saliva, droppings and serum all contain potentially allergenic proteins, and it is these materials which are considered as substances hazardous to health. The symptoms of laboratory animal allergy cover a wide range of health conditions associated with sensitisation. The symptoms of allergy to laboratory animal materials may be confused with those of hay fever. They include rhinitis (sneezing and running nose), conjunctivitis (sore and runny eyes), skin rashes such as urticaria (hives or nettle rash), wheals on the skin around bites and scratches, and asthma (tightness of the chest and wheezing). Allergic asthma may develop during working hours or may be delayed until several hours after exposure has ceased, when the employee (or other worker) is away from the workplace. In rare cases, anaphylactic shock (a severe form of shock and collapse) may occur. Not all individuals may exhibit all of the symptoms mentioned. The levels of animal allergen to which individuals have to be exposed before symptoms first develop (exposureresponse relationship) are not known. People who have become sensitised can experience symptoms after exposure to very low allergen concentrations. It is not possible to predict who will develop symptoms of allergy to laboratory animal materials. There is an association between atopy (skin test reactions to common allergens such as house dust mite, and grass and other pollens) and the development of symptoms of allergy to laboratory animal materials, particularly asthma. However, a third of the population is atopic if judged by skin testing to commonly encountered allergens alone. It would not be justifiable to exclude all these people from working in an animal facility, as allergy to laboratory animal materials will develop only in a minority. However, individuals who already have allergic symptoms from exposure to animals, including pets, may be more susceptible to allergy to laboratory animal materials, and these individuals have to be assessed by the Occupational Service regarding their suitability for work in an animal facility. 1.2 Species to which this policy and procedures document applies The frequency of allergic reactions to animal materials varies considerably from species to species. In part this is due to innate differences between species in the ability of materials to provoke sensitisation, and in part to differences in the number of animals of a particular species that are in use for laboratory research, and thus the number of persons working with that species, and their duration of exposure. Thus allergy to material from a rarely used species may not have been identified because very few workers are exposed to the material. The procedures and practice on cleaning of cages and rooms, handling and transport of animals, protective clothing and respiratory protection, and procedures for rooms in laboratory areas set out in this document apply to work with rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, birds, with few exceptions, and many arthropods (includes insects), especially locusts (but see 10.6 for Drosophila). For all species, including those listed above, the policy and procedures on health surveillance, assessment of risk and exposure, management, audit and monitoring, training in working practices and provision of information apply. Thus all work involving any animal must be the subject of an assessment of risk. If, as a result of such an assessment, it is concluded that the procedures for protective clothing set out for rats, mice, etc., in this document should apply, then this 1

5 must be set out in appropriate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). All staff and students working with animals, of whatever species, must undergo health surveillance. The fact that a species is not included in the list above must not be taken to imply that there is no risk of sensitisation or allergic reactions. There may also be reasons other than allergy to animal materials why those working with a particular species must wear protective clothing. For example, allergy to materials from New World monkeys is perhaps uncommon, but for other health reasons, such as bacterial infections it is essential that suitable protective clothing be worn. 1.3 Assessment of risk and exposure An assessment of risk and exposure must be made for all work with animals. However, there may be circumstances in which the codes of practice described in this document are inappropriate and might require modification. The Occupational Service, Officers of the and Division (HSD) and the Officer, School of Biological Sciences must always be consulted about risk assessments for work with animals which conclude that the advice on allergy to laboratory animal materials given in this document for the species listed in section 1.2 is inappropriate and that propose that alternative procedures should be followed. 1.4 Route by which the substances are hazardous to health Inhalation Ingestion Skin absorption Direct contact with skin or eyes Injection via sharp instruments (including claws etc) The effect of exposure to these substances could be serious and adverse effects could be long term. 1.5 Exposure limits The allergenic effects of exposure to animal proteins differ from the toxic effects of many other substances in that no clear dose/effect relationship has been established. It is known that individuals vary in their susceptibility to allergens and that if a person becomes sensitised to a material, they may then be affected by minute amounts which would previously have not been of concern to them, nor to a non-allergic individual. At present there are no occupational exposure safety limits for animal allergens. 1.6 Requirements of the COSHH and other regulations Exposure to respiratory sensitisers should be prevented or if that is not reasonably practicable, the objective should be to control exposure so as to prevent sensitisation. Measures for sensitised individuals should be aimed at preventing symptoms. Since the introduction of the Control of Substances Hazardous to (COSHH) Regulations it has been a requirement for employers to undertake regular health surveillance of their staff working with laboratory animals (including insects). This is in addition to the general obligation placed on employers by the and at Work Act, which requires the employer to ensure that the workplace is as safe as is reasonably practicable. This legislation also requires the employee to co-operate with the employer in any steps taken to safeguard his or her health and safety, and the employer is obliged to provide adequate control measures to reduce the risk of sensitisation to as low as is reasonably practicable. Relevant duties under the Management of and at Work Regulations (MHSWR) include the obligation for co-operation and co-ordination between different employers sharing a workplace. Occupational asthma following exposure to laboratory animals is reportable to the & Executive under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations RIDDOR. In view of the complexities of the problem of laboratory animal allergy the University has drawn up a policy on the employment of staff working with laboratory animals and also those staff who have regular but incidental exposure to animals, for example, maintenance engineers. This policy document also applies to graduate and undergraduate students involved in work with laboratory animals. The chapters which follow set out the University s policy on management of allergy to animal materials and the Standard Operating Procedures to be adhered to so that the University complies with the law. 2

6 1.7 Reference manuals and guidance documents Information on laboratory animal allergy, the COSHH regulations and other related matters is given in the following documents. All animal facility managers and NACWOs should have access to copies of these documents. All NACWOs have been provided with a copy of EH Essential documents: These may be available on loan from the and Division, and are obtainable from HSE books or good book shops: EH76 Control of laboratory animal allergy HSE 2002 ISBN Preventing Asthma at Work - How to Control Respiratory Sensitisers L ISBN L5: The control of substances hazardous to health regulations Approved Code of Practice and Guidance th Edition ISBN HSG97: A step by step guide to COSHH assessment 2nd Edition 2004 L21: Management of health and safety at work. Management of and at Work Regulations Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (2nd edition) 2000 ISBN The following publications are also useful: HSE, ACDP (1997); Working Safely with Research Animals: Management of Infection Risks; HMSO National Research Council (1997); Occupational and in the Care and Use of Research Animals; National Academy Press Breathe freely leaflet/pocket card HSG 53 (2nd edition) The selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment. A Practical Guide ISBN Code of Practice for the housing and care of animals in designated breeding and supplying establishments Farmer s Lung, HSE Leaflet 3

7 2 Surveillance 2.1 Introduction surveillance of staff working with laboratory animals will be conducted by the Occupational Service in order to detect early signs of ill health among employees. This will be achieved by preemployment or pre-placement health assessments followed by routine follow up health surveillance. At assessment the Occupational staff will inform all employees of the risks of developing a sensitisation to animals, appropriate methods of reducing these risks and the arrangements for and importance of early reporting of relevant symptoms. Any individual reporting symptoms that may be indicative of sensitisation must be seen in Occupational for further advice and support. 2.2 Pre-placement health assessment A pre-placement health assessment will be required for all prospective employees and students prior to commencing animal work. The health assessment will include: Completion of a confidential health questionnaire to establish past or present respiratory symptoms Measurement of lung function. Information regarding allergy symptoms and reporting procedures Completion of health record This will be conducted by an occupational health practitioner and will be focused on identifying individuals who may be more at risk of developing allergic symptoms due to their current health status. Advice will be given to the individual about the risks to health associated with animals and the precautions to take to minimise exposure. NACWOs or Facility Managers will arrange face-fit testing of the recommended RPE by a competent designated person. Symptoms indicative of sensitisation will be discussed and supported with written information (see Appendix D), together with reporting procedures in the event of symptoms occurring. Graduate students who will be working with animals are treated as employees and therefore expected to undergo the same health surveillance. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to inform the Occupational Service when a new student starts work with animals. Part II students who will be doing research projects with animals should complete a health surveillance questionnaire and return it to the Occupational Service. Clinical veterinary medicine students will be sent a health surveillance questionnaire annually and will be seen if symptomatic. It is not possible to identify and exclude applicants who are in good health but who may be susceptible to the development of laboratory animal allergy. However a judgement on the suitability of an individual with a history of animal allergy or allergic asthma will be the decision of the Occupational Physician, following medical investigation to determine whether the symptoms are likely to be related to exposure at work. 2.3 Ongoing health surveillance Staff will receive an LAA health questionnaire on an annual basis. Individuals new to animal work will be seen by the University Occupational Service for health surveillance that will include lung function tests at 6 and 12 weeks and then will receive annual questionnaires. 2.4 Job transfers Offers of internal transfer, or change of duties to jobs involving exposure to laboratory animals will require health assessment as outlined in 2.2 and Procedure following development of allergy Individuals who develop symptoms of laboratory animal allergy must report to their manager and Occupational. Symptomatic individuals would be expected to attend the Occupational Service for a full assessment so that appropriate advice on preventive measures can be given and the health of the individual monitored. It may be appropriate for a member of the Occupational Service to visit the workplace to offer specific advice about working practices and methods of reducing exposure. Adherence to any advice needs to be monitored regularly by the manager. 4

8 Workers found to be suffering from laboratory animal allergy will be advised on additional preventive measures, the work they may safely undertake and any special modifications and precautions. With the individual s consent the manager will also be advised of these measures. Frequency of health surveillance will also be increased. If symptoms cannot be adequately controlled by the measures set out above, the individual may be referred by the Consultant Occupational Physician to a medical specialist for further investigations. These may comprise special pulmonary and immunological tests in order to establish a definite diagnosis and determine the severity of the health problem, and likely prognosis. If these investigations confirm that the individual has occupational asthma the Consultant Occupational Physician will inform the HSE as required by RIDDOR. In exceptional cases severe symptoms of laboratory animal allergy may not be controlled even after all measures have been taken. In the interests of their health the Consultant Occupational Physician may recommend that affected individuals be relocated to a more suitable job and working environment. As a responsible employer the University, with full and proper consultation with the individual, will make all reasonable endeavours to relocate the individual to an alternative job. However, if relocation cannot be successfully implemented and if the risk to health is significant there may be no alternative but to terminate the individual s employment on grounds of occupational ill health. The employee s GP, with the employee s consent should be informed of the facts. 2.6 records Under COSHH all health records should be kept and maintained for 40 years from the date of last entry. These records are currently kept in electronic and paper format by the Occupational Service. 5

9 3 Assessment of risk and exposure 3.1 Categories and number of workers at risk People whose work does not require contact with animals must be prevented from exposure by restricting access to all facilities where laboratory animals are housed. The main groups at risk: Researchers staff, students and visitors Animal technicians Maintenance staff Contractors Visitors Some of those working with animals are not University employees: their employers have primary responsibility for their health and safety. Workers may be exposed for periods from a few hours to a full working week, although their degree of exposure is dependent on the type of work. The work practices, PPE/RPE and the training and awareness of such persons when accessing the animal facility must be set out in writing and in detail. 3.2 Hazard identification and risk assessment Workers must be aware of all the hazards from arthropods (includes insects), as well as from traditional laboratory animals. Risk assessments must be completed to comply with the COSHH regulations. The health information required to complete the risk assessment is set out earlier. The University s Committees for will ensure that all departments are aware of the requirements set out in this document and that adequate risk assessments have been prepared and communicated to workers. 3.3 Workers exposed/groups at risk All those whose work is concerned with laboratory animals, including birds and insects, are at risk. Animal care technicians, the animal facility managers, named veterinary surgeons and research workers, including research students, normally have more contact with animals but there are a number of undergraduates, especially Part II students, as well as technical maintenance staff (and, exceptionally, other staff) who may not be licence holders but who nevertheless come into contact with laboratory animals or insects. Each department will identify those at risk. Each year the University Occupational Service will contact NACWOs and facility managers and other appropriate individuals for this information. NACWOs and facility managers must inform the University Occupational Service of any change of worker. The Occupational Service will inform the University via the appropriate officers and committees of any unsatisfactory departmental circumstances of which they become aware when consulted with respect to possible animal allergy, so that the University and department can assess the situation and take any necessary remedial action. 6

10 4 Management, audit and monitoring 4.1 This chapter sets out how the University monitors compliance with the procedures, and audits departmental and University management. 4.2 The COSHH Regulations say that the employer shall ensure that employees are under suitable health surveillance and that employees are provided with information, instruction and training suitable and sufficient for them to know the risks created by exposure and the precautions which should be taken. 4.3 Oversight of procedures falls within the remit of the various Committees for, although local implementation will be largely the delegated responsibility of the animal facility managers, Named Animal Care and Welfare Officers (NACWOs) in charge of facilities or staff in charge of insect rooms. The Sub-Committee for Biological Hazards takes responsibility for these matters on behalf of the Committees for, and is the policy-formulating body. The Sub-Committee for Biological Hazards has co-opted animal facility managers to provide the necessary experience and expertise for dealing with safety in these facilities. The Sub-committee for Biological Hazards will also institute an effective mechanism for liaison with departments, and meetings of departmental representatives from every department with animal (including insect) facilities will be held regularly, so that departmental staff can be made aware of the development of policy on animal allergy matters, and so that the Sub-Committee can receive feedback from departments. This is effected by means of regular NACWO meetings at which the Officer, School of the Biological Sciences is present and the Director of and occasionally attends. Departmental representatives on this animal allergy body should normally be the animal facility managers, NACWOs, or, for insect facilities, the person designated to manage those facilities. 4.4 The Sub-Committee for Biological Hazards is also the body which is responsible, through the Committees for, to the University for control, monitoring and auditing of procedures, and an officer, appointed by the Sub-committee for Biological Hazards will be responsible for monitoring and auditing measures to combat allergy to animal materials on behalf of that Sub-Committee throughout the University. This is the Officer, School of the Biological Sciences. The Sub-Committee for Biological Hazards is scheduled to meet three times a year in order to report matters to the regular triannual meetings of the University Consultative Committee for and Executive Committee. NACWOs meet regularly (at present at intervals no longer than every six weeks), and this is also a mechanism for liaison between the Sub-Committee for Biological Hazards, departmental representatives, the Officer, School of the Biological Sciences and representatives of the University Occupational Service. 4.5 Workers will receive an LAA health questionnaire on an annual basis. Individuals new to animal work will be seen by the University Occupational Service for health surveillance that will include lung function tests at 6 and 12 weeks and then after 1 year. It is an essential part of the monitoring process that all individuals who work with animals complete and return that questionnaire. Under the and at Work Act 1974 Section 7, it is the duty of every employee to take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and to co-operate with the employer to perform or comply with the employer s duties and obligations. Disciplinary action may be taken against any employee who does not. Facility managers and NACWOs have the delegated responsibility of maintaining lists of workers. These persons will be required to complete and return the annual questionnaire, and to have undertaken training satisfactorily. Completed health questionnaires will be scrutinised by the University Occupational Service and further clinical investigation may be required. If an individual fails to respond the University Occupational Service will verify their continued employment and send a reminder letter copied to their supervisor and appropriate NACWO. If after a further month they fail to respond the Occupational Service will inform the supervisor and NACWO that the individual has failed to comply with their statutory obligation for health surveillance. 4.6 Access to the University s animal facilities by those who work within the University but are not employed by the University is conditional on evidence that their employer is undertaking APPROVED health screening and monitoring; the University will ensure that such persons have been trained in Standard Operating Procedures to combat animal allergy. 7

11 4.7 The University will provide training and information for its staff, students, visitors etc; information is provided initially at the pre-employment health screen by the University Occupational Service, and further information and appropriate training is provided by animal facility managers and NACWOs. In those departments without a senior animal facility manager (departments with procedure rooms only), arrangements must be made by the department, for the necessary training to be undertaken by one of the animal facility managers and/or the Officer, School of the Biological Sciences. The information to be provided, both at the pre-employment health screen and during departmental training, will be drawn up by the Occupational Service and and Division. 4.8 Information on allergy to animal materials is also included in the training course for applicants for Home Office Licences under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act

12 5 Training in working practices and provision of information to staff and students 5.1 Training in working practices Arrangements to provide training in working practices must be made for all relevant staff and students before they start any work with animals. Animal facility managers/ NACWOs shall be responsible for providing training in Standard Operating Procedures, in conjunction with departmental safety officers. In departments where there is no animal facility manager, the head of department shall, after consulting the relevant School Officer, and/or HSD, make the necessary arrangements as set out in Section 4, Paragraph Information to be provided to staff Information on animal allergy will be provided to staff by the University Occupational Service at the pre-employment/pre-placement health screening. Staff will also be shown the essential aspects of the University s Policy. Departments will ensure that on appointment staff sign a statement that they have received a copy of this document [Animal allergy including laboratory animals]. Animal facility managers, NACWOs or other staff appointed by the head of department for that purpose, will ensure, at the time of initial training, that all staff have received and understood the information in the document, and staff will sign a statement that they have read and understood it. 5.3 Information to be provided to graduate students Applicants for registration as graduate students will be provided with this document by the department concerned at the time of application for registration, and should attend for initial health surveillance when they commence their course. It is the responsibility of the heads of departments and potential supervisors, in consultation with the Degree Committees, to decide which applicants should receive this document. They are also responsible for informing the Occupational Service when a postgraduate student begins a course which involves exposure to animal allergens. 5.4 Information to be provided to undergraduate students All undergraduates and NST Part II students who are to do work with animals which could involve a risk from allergy to laboratory animals must be provided with this document by the department before starting such work. There will need to be co-operation between departments and colleges for such information to be provided. 9

13 6 Overview of standard operating procedures (SOPs) which are essential to control exposure to allergens 6.1 Introduction Detailed information on working practices is given in the sections that follow, but an overview is given here. 6.2 Protective clothing All workers with laboratory animals and arthropods (includes insects), (but see section 10 for Drosophila), must normally wear protective clothing which is put on when entering the animal area, and removed on leaving. The aim of this procedure is to prevent those who work with animals from carrying allergen out of the animal area into other areas, prolonging their own exposure to allergen, and also exposing other persons to allergen outside the animal facility. The type of protective clothing to be worn should be appropriate to the risks, including exposure to laboratory animal allergens, and this will be different for different groups of workers depending on the time spent in animal holding areas and on the procedures involved. The type of clothing to be used will be determined by risk assessment and will be specified in Standard Operating Procedures. Simple frontfastening laboratory coats are inadequate and the clothing specified must be distinguishable by colour or design from protective clothing worn elsewhere in the department. Animal care staff, and research staff who spend long periods in animal areas, are recommended to change into suits of clothes, such as operating theatre suits, that are worn only in the animal area. Respiratory protective FFP2 facemasks as a minimum must be available and worn by all personnel who work with animals as specified in the unit s local SOPs. Protective clothing must be stored separately from external clothing and laboratory coats. Disposable mobcaps and gloves must also be available. An assessment must be made of the risks involved, the level of protection required, and the order in which clothing will be put on and taken off. Cleaning animal cages of soiled bedding must be done in an extraction-ventilated cabinet or with a vacuum extract system. For prolonged periods of animal handling or exposure to soiled bedding, the use of respiratory protective equipment is essential. All waste must be disposed of in a manner to prevent generation of dust and aerosols. Sealed double-layered polythene sacks or sealed skips must be used in order to prevent exposure to anyone who may come in contact with the waste. Cleaning of floors in animal holding rooms must be carried out by damp sweeping or mopping, or with a high efficiency filtered vacuum cleaner, not by dry brushing. Frequent cleaning must be carried out to maintain all animal and associated areas as free of dust and aerosols as possible. All protective clothing should be disposable, laundered on-site or carefully bagged for laundering elsewhere (degradable bags are available). Protective clothing must not be worn in staff rest areas. No eating or drinking etc is allowed outside of the designated rest areas. Showering facilities should be provided for persons using the facilities. Hand washing facilities must be available in, or readily accessible from, all animal rooms. For staff with symptoms of laboratory animal allergy, additional precautions may be required depending on advice from the University Occupational Service. 6.3 Training for the work activity Specific training for persons working with animals is required. Training on correct working practices including the correct fitting of respiratory protection (approved face masks) must be given to all persons who access the animal facility. All visitors to the animal facility must wear the protective clothing and RPE provided. In addition, the supervisor must approve the scheme of work. 10

14 6.4 Monitoring and control As the relevance of atmospheric monitoring for animal allergy is not yet confirmed the emphasis must therefore be placed on ensuring the adequacy of the control measures in relation to the risks, and that the control measures are properly used and maintained. Therefore, the control must be such that exposure of staff working in an animal facility to potentially allergenic materials must be reduced to the lowest level which it is reasonably practicable to achieve. 6.5 Engineering control measures With very few exceptions and those well documented, all animal holding rooms have been designed in accordance with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and the Code of Practice pursuant to section 21 of the Act (Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals used in Scientific Procedures of 7 February 1989). All ventilation systems serving these rooms are commissioned to give a minimum 15 fresh air changes per hour with the capability of being increased to 20 fresh air changes per hour at higher stocking densities. The temperatures and humidities are controlled within specified limits and continuously monitored to ensure compliance with legislation. Supply and extract ductwork is configured to ensure that animal allergens are removed, as quickly as practically possible, from the immediate environment of the person working in the room and terminations are so arranged to discharge as remotely as possible from the facility. For all facilities a full system performance evaluation is carried out on an annual basis to ensure airflow rates and pressure regimes comply with commissioning data. 11

15 7 Handling and transport of animals 7.1 Introduction Live laboratory animals must not be taken into non-animal designated areas Animals should be moved in boxes or containers protected by filters Bodies of dead animals and soiled bedding should be transported in sealed plastic bags or other suitable sealed container A dead animal should be thoroughly wetted before any procedure is performed (e.g., postmortem/removal of tissue) 7.2 Handling of animals When handling any of the species listed in Section 1 (see section 1.2) or groups of species the worker must wear the following: i) A long-sleeved protective coverall, cross-fastening laboratory coat or other suitable protective clothing. Simple front-fastening laboratory coats are inadequate. The type of protective clothing will be determined by risk assessment (see section 6.2) and must be distinguishable from protective clothing worn elsewhere in the department ii) A disposable mobcap iii) Disposable overshoes iv) An approved face mask (FFP2 or better) (see section 9.4) On leaving the animal unit items under i-iv above should be taken off. Gowns or coveralls may be re-used only by the same person, if returning to the animal unit the same day and as long as there are adequate facilities to store these garments where they will not contaminate normal clothing. The mobcaps and mask may also be re-used by the same person on the same day after which they must be disposed of. Gloves must be disposed of after each visit to the animal unit. Items under ii-iv above should be disposed of by being placed in a closed container containing a plastic bin liner. Disposable coveralls can be disposed of in the same way, although they can be re-used in a limited way if appropriate. Washable coveralls should be placed in a separate bin to await laundry. In some areas where animals are not present masks may be removed, but only when the risk of animal allergens is insignificant. A risk assessment must be made of activities to determine if removal of facemasks is allowed. Work with Drosophila will be regarded as a lower risk activity. Therefore standard laboratory PPE eg laboratory coats will suffice (However, workers must still undergo health surveillance). Work with simians, dogs and cats will also be regarded as a lower risk activity from the point of view of allergy. However, it is essential, when working with simians, to wear protective clothing for other reasons and highly desirable, in certain circumstances, to wear protective clothing when working with cats and dogs. Those who work with simians, cats and dogs must also undergo health surveillance. 12

16 8 Cleaning of cages and rooms 8.1 Introduction The presence of airborne allergens in rooms containing laboratory animals is inevitable. There is a risk that faecal residues and body parts of arthropods (includes insects) will produce allergic reactions. However, persons cleaning rooms or cages using inappropriate methods may generate very high concentrations of such allergens. The physical disturbance of used cage bedding and room dust puts workers directly in the line of contamination from such allergens if suitable precautions are not taken, and may also expose others outside the immediate area to some risk. The COSHH Regulations Approved Code of Practice recognises such dangers at work and suggests the adoption of plant, processes, or systems of work, which minimise the generation of, suppress, or contain hazardous dust. Other control measures are local exhaust ventilation (LEV), regular cleaning of contamination from walls, surfaces etc., and provision of means of safe storage and disposal of substances hazardous to health. Work associated with cleaning in animal facilities therefore requires the adoption of appropriate Standard Operating Procedures in order to reduce to a minimum the exposure of individuals to animal allergens. These areas of high-risk work are: Cleaning of animal rooms Cleaning of animal cages Disposal of waste generated by these cleaning operations 8.2 The cleaning of animal rooms Cleaning animal rooms by dry sweeping floors with a brush is unacceptable as it generates a high airborne allergen load close to the worker. This is also true of dry dusting or hand brushing of shelves, racks, or any other such surfaces in an animal room. Floors should be cleaned by damp sweeping or HEPA filtered vacuum cleaning. Low noise models are available (e.g. the Numatic Microfilter range) which are suitable for use in an animal facility. Some animals may be disturbed by the operation of even quiet machines inside their holding rooms, and in these cases long hoses are available, which enable the room to be cleaned while the machine remains outside. Very nervous animals may require that rooms are cleaned using damp sweeping and damp dusting techniques. Such vacuum cleaners will work properly only if emptied regularly and if the filters are changed or serviced by the manufacturers at the recommended intervals. 8.3 Cage cleaning Scraping the contents from the cages into a bin either in the animal room or at some central point, perhaps close to the cage washing facility is not acceptable practice. The uncontrolled dumping into a bin of large amounts of relatively dry material contaminated with animal products is bound to expose the worker to a very high airborne allergen load. Possible solutions that will greatly reduce this exposure include: Local exhaust ventilation - Cleaning is carried out under a purpose-built extraction hood permanently located in a convenient position in the animal unit. The system is designed to take airflow over the cage cleaning operation and away from the operative. The dirty air is then ducted out of the building and can be filtered if necessary. It is essential that allergens are not drawn back into the building or other buildings. Mobile cage cleaning stations - These in effect simulate the action of a local exhaust ventilation hood, but filter the exhaust air through HEPA filters back into the room. Vacuum cleaning - Cages can be cleared quite effectively of their dirty bedding using a powerful vacuum cleaner with a large bore hose. Like local exhaust ventilation this can be built into the animal unit, the large containing bin and exhaust being located outside the building. Alternatively there are several mobile models on the market that make use of HEPA filters and a two-stage bin arrangement. Care must be taken with these units that noise levels to the animal rooms are kept within Home Office prescribed limits. 13

17 8.4 Maintenance, examination and test Filters from cleaning machinery should be checked and changed/serviced at recommended intervals and disposed of with care. The maximum interval allowed in law is 14 months but every 6 months is preferable and recommended. Equipment must be maintained, examined and tested, and records kept for audit. 8.5 Disposal of waste Soiled bedding from cleaning operations should be handled with due precautions and carefully sealed in plastic bags (preferably double bagged) for disposal. 14

18 9 Protective clothing and respiratory protection for work with laboratory animals 9.1 Introduction Techniques for preventing exposure to substances hazardous to health, such as elimination or substitution, are inappropriate for work which must involve animals and their allergens. Instead emphasis has to be placed on methods of controlling exposure. 9.2 Methods As set out in Section 6, protective clothing must be worn in animal areas and removed on leaving to prevent allergen being carried out of the animal area, and so either prolonging exposure of the person concerned, or exposing some other person, who has not entered the animal area, to allergen. Protective clothing must be worn at all times whilst working with laboratory animals. Protective clothing must be put on by all personnel when entering an animal area, and removed on leaving the animal area. Protective clothing must be stored separately from outdoor clothing. Such protective clothing for use in the animal unit should be distinguished in some way (e.g., by colour, style, etc.) from protective clothing worn elsewhere, to help ensure allergen-contaminated articles are not worn outside the animal unit. The most suitable protective clothing is a coverall which will cover all parts of the normal clothing. Gowns are acceptable for short visits to an animal facility. Those who remain in an animal facility for long periods are encouraged to wear the appropriate purpose-designed clothing into which they change completely. Some will be using Individually Ventilated Cages (IVCs); these maintain full ventilation HEPA filtered air supply providing rodents with a high degree of microbiological protection and reducing or eliminating the escape of particulate matter from the cage into the room. This system of caging helps to protect workers from aero-allergens and infected animals. The workers may therefore not need to wear such a comprehensive level of protective clothing or respiratory protection in a full IVC unit; likewise using rigid or flexible film isolators to house all animals in a unit may also allow a less stringent level of personal protection. Disposable gloves and protective sleeving may be appropriate in some circumstances, e.g. for protection against urine and contaminated bedding, particularly for sufferers of skin conditions. When worn, gloves should be sufficiently sensitive to allow animals to be handled without distress (not to be confused with gloves provided for protection against animal bites). Plastic over-shoes have a practical value in preventing the spread of allergens and should be put on when entering the animal unit and removed when leaving. Disposable paper mobcaps may also be used for similar prevention, and hair should be completely confined within the cap. Cap and overshoes must be removed when leaving the unit. Facilities for laundering and cleaning protective clothing should be made available, preferably within the animal unit. Workers must not take contaminated clothing to their homes for cleaning. It is important to ensure that employees (and others where appropriate) use the control measures correctly, that they are properly trained, informed and instructed in the use of such measures. 9.3 Other procedures requiring the use of respiratory protection, other than work with animals Cage cleaning Handling powdered diets Handling experimental compounds or antibiotics or medicines in powdered form Changing filters Manually unloading bedding materials from delivery vehicles 15

19 9.4Acceptable types of respiratory protective equipment i) Disposable Face Masks: These must conform to the HSE approved standard EN149, and meet the FFP2(s) classification which provides a protection factor of 12 x NPF (nominal protection factor) and 10 x APF (assigned protection factor), the latter of these being the minimum standard. Advice may be sought on the selection of suitable products from the School Officers, and Division and/or the University Occupational Service as well as the supplier/manufacturer. Masks with exhale valves are not suitable for use in areas where the animals are to be protected from exhaled air, i.e. disease-free animals, sterile operating suites. Effective protection is highly dependent on fitting and use. In particular, equipment such as the above disposable respirators rely on a good seal between the mask and the face, and therefore people with beards or other facial hair should look for an alternative respiratory protective device. Disposable nuisance dust masks and surgical masks offer practically no protection. They are unsuitable and must not be used where protection is needed against animal allergens. ii) Powered Respirators: These are more effective for beard wearers, whilst offering a high standard of comfort, and protection from allergens e.g. PF22 & PF23 (HEPA-filtered). 9.5 Eye protection Eye protection must be worn when handling detergents, sanitizers and specialised cleaning chemicals, using high pressure hosing systems, or operating tunnel cage-washing machines or similar equipment. Acceptable types of eye protection spectacles, full-face visors or goggles conforming to BS Powered respirators with integral visors also conforming to BS Maintenance and storage of personal protective equipment Equipment must be maintained in good working order, and filters must be changed regularly. Powered respirators need to be thoroughly maintained, examined and tested at least once every three months, and records kept of this, and of spare parts fitted. Departments will need to establish systems for maintenance, examination and test, and keep records available for audit. 16

20 10 Allergen exposure resulting from work with arthropods (includes insects) 10.1 Introduction Allergy to insect or other arthropod material may develop as a result of repeated exposure, just as it may to materials from laboratory mammals and birds. It has been suggested in certain literature that the locust, for example, is unique in its ability to cause eventual allergen sensitivity in all individuals coming into contact with it. The onset of allergy may include acute rhinitis, conjunctivitis and sometimes urticaria (where allergens enter breaks in the skin). Allergy may erupt almost spontaneously in certain individuals. It has long been recognised that hair from the bodies of certain spiders and caterpillars are frequently the cause of acute allergy. The impact of allergies in some individuals, coupled with the long-term and potentially very serious implications in the workplace must not be under-estimated. This section outlines general measures that can be taken to reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions to insect material. There are, however, considerable differences in the risk of development of allergy to insects and other arthropods of different species, and the and Division and/or the Officer, School of the Biological Sciences should be consulted about the measures that need to be adopted for each species Containment The most important aspect to consider, with respect to the spread of allergens, is that of containment. There are many ways in which their spread can be minimised, from the design of the micro-environment in which the animals live, to the level of access and layout of the room(s) in which the colonies are housed, to the provision and types of protective clothing worn. Careful thought and planning with regard to these various aspects will help to ensure the majority of allergens remain within a specified and controlled area Micro-environment There are now many low-maintenance materials available for the construction of cages suitable for the housing of insects. There are companies who will construct cages to any specification, for example a cage made from moulded polypropylene with removable washable filters and a glass front which utilises a flexible seal could be made. The do-it-yourself wood and muslin approach to insect housing is no longer acceptable. This type of design is highly unsuitable for the containment of allergenic substances, and it is also extremely difficult to clean. A suitable material is one that can be easily cleaned, is non-absorbent, and is reasonably light in weight and unperforated. The relatively low exchange of oxygen required for insects can be easily and safely supplied via filter material or a removable filter carrier Room design Emphasis must again be put on ease of cleaning ie non-porous surfaces. Sufficient storage space must also be provided. The provision of a vestibule (air lock, with double doors) at the room entry is desirable, and will help reduce the escape of allergens to adjoining corridors and offices. Thought must be given to levels of ventilation within the insect room and these must be capable of reducing air-borne allergen particles to a minimum; care must be taken to adjust the air velocity so that materials, and insects, are not swept up into the air. Regular changes of filters are imperative. Vent-axias are not generally suitable for effective ventilation. Where possible, such ventilation should ideally provide a negative air pressure to the room, i.e. air must be drawn through (not pushed into) the room, and be filtered on extract. The room should never be cleaned by dry brushing. A HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner must be used to prevent the generation of air-borne respirable material Protective clothing and equipment Some form of protective clothing (see Section 9) must be worn at all times by persons working with insect colonies: this must include all visitors and contractors. On entering the insect holding room all personnel should either change into appropriate protective suits or put on a coverall. Any protective clothing should be removed upon leaving the room and placed into a specified receptacle for cleaning or disposal, unless it is to be used again in the near future (the same day), when it may be stored in an appropriate place. 17

21 Drosophila It is recognised that the risk of acquiring laboratory animal allergy from handling Drosophila is lower than that from handling many other laboratory animals. The level of protection includes gowns and other simple protection. As set out elsewhere, such staff must undergo health surveillance.

22 11 Procedures for rooms in laboratory areas where work with animals is to be done 11.1 Introduction Work with living or dead animals should be done in the animal unit unless there is sufficient justification to do the work in designated animal areas in laboratories. The and division in conjunction with the appropriate, School Officer must approve laboratories where animal work is to be carried out. If regulated procedures are to be performed on the animals then the laboratories must be designated as prescribed in the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act Accommodation for work with animals in laboratory areas Accommodation for work with animals in laboratory areas must conform to the requirements set out below: The accommodation must not be used for any purpose other than work with animals, unless the work with animals can be segregated in time from other work and the room thoroughly cleaned after the animal work is completed. While the work is being carried out with whole animals, rather than specific organs of the animal, unless performed in a contained environment, persons not actually involved with the animal work should not be present. Access to the area must be restricted to authorised persons. Protective clothing must be worn in these areas and a lobby should be provided where the protective clothing can be kept and put on before entering the accommodation. It may be acceptable for the protective clothing to be put on in a corridor immediately outside the room, particularly if the work is undertaken infrequently but the HSD/ Officer, School of the Biological Sciences should be consulted about whether this is acceptable first. On leaving the accommodation the protective clothing must be removed. Care should be taken not to contaminate normal clothing with the protective clothing that has been worn while working with the animals. Suitable ventilation should be provided to reduce the amount of allergen entering the rest of the laboratory; simple fans are not suitable for this, and guidance from the HSD/ Officer, School of the Biological Sciences and EMBS engineers must be sought on the design of accommodation. Written Standard Operating Procedures must be provided for each procedure to be carried out in the accommodation. Live animals must be brought to, and removed from, the accommodation in filter boxes. Dead animals should be transported to or from the accommodation in sealed plastic bags. Any animal material that may contain allergens must be removed from the accommodation in sealed plastic bags. Immediately after use the area where the animal work has been undertaken must be thoroughly cleaned. 19

23 12 Assessment of risk and exposure to large animals 12.1 Large Animals Those whose work requires contact with large animals need to be aware of the problems associated with allergens from large animals, especially dogs, horses, pigs, cattle and sheep. In all cases, assessment of risk and introduction of appropriate controls (which usually equates with good animal husbandry and hygiene) should be adopted at all times when dealing with large animals, whether in a farm or research environment. It is also important that suitable approved protective clothing is available and worn correctly to minimise any exposure. Dogs Although a lower risk category than smaller laboratory animals, exposure to dogs as well as cats, can lead to sensitisation not only in the domestic environment but also in the work environment. Sources of exposure to dog allergens appear to be saliva, hair, and skin. Pigs Asthma and other respiratory symptoms have been attributed to pig exposures, particularly in farm operations. In general, the symptoms do not appear to be allergic but more often are related to exposure to high nitrogen concentrations, especially in confinement operations. Occupational asthma has been described in the literature in a person who apparently had allergic sensitivity to a urinary protein from pigs. Cattle Sensitivity to cattle has been reported in 15-20% of dairy farmers. Airborne cow-dander appears to be the most likely causative agent. Horses Horses constitute a highly potent source of allergens. Allergens originate from horse dander, skin, scrapings and albumin. They appear to be shed by the skin and are highly sensitising in some people. Sheep Little information is available regarding sensitivity to sheep. Major allergens have not been identified. Contact dermatitis, possibly due to lanolin in the wool, can occur. Marmosets Protective clothing is worn in the marmoset area at all times which must be removed when leaving the area, to minimise exposure in other areas of the building i.e. offices and tearoom. This considerably reduces exposure time. Listed below are the clothing and methods employed at present: i) Protective gowns are worn over all normal clothes. These must be put on before entering the marmoset area and removed on leaving. These gowns are colour-coded to prevent them being worn in other parts of the building. OR Blue laboratory suits are worn when in the marmoset area, which must be put on in the changing room before entering the marmoset area, and removed in the changing room immediately after leaving the area. Separate areas for storage of clean clothing and disposal of soiled protective clothing are available, together with showers. ii) Mobcaps must be worn at all times when in the marmoset area and removed when leaving. 20

24 iii) iv) Gloves (NB latex and other allergy) must be worn in the marmoset area when required and removed when leaving the area, hands must be washed immediately afterwards. At times, it is not practical to wear gloves for fine manipulative procedures; gloves need not been worn, but hands must be washed as soon as possible afterwards. Disposable plastic overshoes must be worn over normal shoes at all times in the marmoset area and be removed when leaving the area. Alternatively, change shoes to laboratory shoes which must be worn in the marmoset area at all times and remove when leaving. 21

25 Appendix A UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE Laboratory Animal Allergy Audit Sheet DEPARTMENT: DATE OF VISIT: COMPILED BY: 1) Indicate all species of animal in the designated establishment: avian (state types) gerbil guinea pig hamster insects or arthropods (state types) mouse rabbit rat primate other (please specify) 2) Indicate the protective clothing worn when workers are in contact with animals TECHNICAL STAFF RESEARCH WORKERS approved disposable face mask approved respiratory protection disposable gloves ear protectors gauntlet style gloves goggles or eye protection gown laboratory coat mobcap overshoes theatre suit 3) Number of Technical Staff/Ancillary Staff directly involved in routine animal technology duties (please circle number) ) Number of Research Staff directly involved in routine animal studies (please circle number) ) Is protective clothing freely available and at all entrances to the animal facilities? Yes No 22

26 6) Is the protective clothing colour-coded for use in specific areas? Yes No 7) Are there adequate changing and washing facilities for all staff using the facilities? Yes No 8) What is the extent of these changing and washing facilities? shower facilities separate male and female changing areas shared changing areas hand washing facilities lockers for outdoor clothing laundry bins for soiled clothing on-site laundering facilities storage for clean protective clothing 9) Are there any of the following rest/wc facilities on site with easy access? Male WC Female WC Disabled WC Coffee (rest) room Other (please specify) 10) Is protective clothing removed on entering these rest areas? Yes No Other (please specify) 11) Please state the approximate number of air changes/animal room/hour Other (please specify) 12) Is the airflow arrangement of animal room to corridor/access areas? corridor +ve to rooms rooms +ve to corridors 23

27 13) Who has the duty to ensure the cleaning of filters in the animal room areas and how frequently are these filters cleaned? Name/s of person/s responsible for cleaning filters Frequency of cleaning of animal rooms filters Is respiratory protection worn throughout this cleaning procedure? Yes No 14) Who is responsible for cleaning the plant room air filters? Name/s of person/s responsible for cleaning filters Frequency of cleaning of plant room filters Is respiratory protection worn throughout this cleaning procedure? Yes No 15) How are these contaminated filters cleaned and/or disposed of? 16) What method is used to clean animal room flooring? wet mopping dry sweeping vacuum other (please specify) 17) Are any of the following present in the facility? Flexible-film isolators Containment Areas (state level) IVC s DEFRA Quarantine Operating/PM Room Other (please specify) 18) Does the facility have an automated method of handling clean animal bedding material? Yes No Other (please specify) 19) Is there a ventilated cabinet or area where staff can deposit soiled animal bedding? Yes No Other (please specify) 24

28 20) By what method is the soiled bedding disposed of? double-layered and sealed polythene/plastic bags directly into external waste bin or skip other method (please specify) 21) Approximately what proportion of the working day (in hours) are staff working in animal rooms or areas where, because of the procedures being undertaken are likely to generate significant concentrations of animal allergens? Please state number of hours/technical staff and others: 22) Are written Standard Operating Procedures in existence for most relevant activities? Yes No Other (please specify) 23) Are workers provided with correct instructions in the prevention measures to contain LAA and the control measures to prevent the production of aerosols? Yes No Other (please specify) 24) Who is responsible for this training? Names of training individual/s: Comments and observations should be recorded below: Signature of Audit Compiler: Signature of Officer: Signature of Head of Department: Signature of Occupational Nurse/Physician: 25

29 Appendix B1 Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) face-fit testing A respirator fit test and a respirator user seal check are two distinct methods for ensuring an appropriate fit of a tight fitting face piece style respirator with the wearer. Certain facial features and facial hair which prevent a proper seal of a face piece may prevent a person from using certain types of respirator. Fit tests should be conducted: Whenever a new type of mask is provided When there is a change in facial features (dentures, cosmetic surgery). When there is a significant weight change Annually as a minimum A competent designated member of staff will conduct a face-fit test when workers are first issued with any form of RPE. The user should perform a user seal check each time before entering the contaminated environment. Full information on fit testing of respiratory protective equipment face pieces can be found in the HSE information Document HSE 282/28 This is available from and Division. A leaflet Checking the fit of your face-mask reproduced here as appendix B2 is available on request from and Division. 26

30 Appendix B2 Remain Vigilant Wearing the correct RPE, and ensuring it fits well is an important step to reducing the likelihood of developing an allergy. However, if you develop any of these symptoms whilst working in a unit of UBSS, you must stop work immediately, and report to your supervisor. Adverse symptoms requiring reporting include: Sneezing Runny nose Sore eyes Skin rash/reddening/blotches Asthmatic symptoms Tightness of the chest Wheezing Contact Information Remember, it is vital that you protect yourself from exposure to allergens whilst working in any of the facilities within UBSS. Ensure you follow all the Safe Operating Procedures (SOP s), and wear all the PPE you are instructed to. Remain vigilant to any symptoms that may indicate you are developing an allergy. If in ANY doubt, you must report to your supervisor who will contact the Occupational Service. For information on any occupational health issue, please contact the University Occupational Service on the number below. Occupational Service Phone: (3)36594 Dr Martin Vinnell Officer for UBSS Phone: (7)65272 HSD119E and Division 20 Trumpington Street Cambridge CB2 1QA Phone: Fax: safety@hermes.cam.ac.uk University of Cambridge and Division Checking the fit of your face mask This guidance is issued specifically to staff working in facilities within the University Biomedical Support Services (UBSS). If you have any queries, please speak to your Supervisor, or contact the UBSS Officer or the and Division. If you have ANY questions or concerns relating to your work, especially if you feel that your health is being affected, you MUST stop what you are doing and report to your supervisor who will contact the Occupational Service immediately for advice September

31 Introduction If you use personal protective equipment (PPE), it is vital that you wear it correctly. This is of particular importance with Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) such as face-masks worn in biological units, used to protect you against allergens. When you use a face-mask (the minimum standard of disposable respiratory protection you should be using is an FFP2 disposable respirator), it is vital you follow the manufacturers instructions on how to put the mask on correctly. Once in place, you must check to ensure that the mask is correctly fitted by carrying out a simple test. There are two types of test for FFP2 disposable masks. One is for those masks with an exhale valve fitted, and the other for those without. It is important to note that you cannot get a correct fit with these types of mask if you have a beard or facial hair that prevents direct contact between the face and the edge of the respirator. If you cannot achieve a proper fit, you MUST NOT enter the contaminated area. You must speak to your supervisor. If you are issued with a mask/respirator other than the disposable type shown here, then ensure you know how to use it correctly before entering the biological unit. Performing a simple Fit-Test The diagrams below show you how to perform a simple fit-test. If you are still unsure whether your mask is fitted correctly, speak to your supervisorthey will assist you in carrying out this test. 1. Performing a simple fit-test with a mask without an exhale valve fitted 1. Place the fingertips of both hands at the top of the metal nosepiece. Mould the nosepiece to the shape of your nose by pushing inward while moving your fingertips down both sides of the nosepiece. Pinching the nosepiece using one hand may result in less effective respirator performance. 2. Performing a simple fit-test with a mask that has en exhale valve fitted 1. Using both hands mould metal nosepiece comfortably to shape of nose Note do not use with beards or other facial hair that may prevent contact between the face and edge of the respirator The seal of the respirator on the face should be fit-checked prior to wearing in the work area. a) Cover the front of the respirator with both hands, being careful not to disturb the position of respirator. b) Exhale sharply. A positive pressure should be felt inside the respirator. If any leakage is detected, adjust position of respirator and/or tension of strap. Retest the seal. Repeat the procedure until the respirator is sealed properly. The seal of the respirator on the face should be fit-checked prior to wearing in the work area. a) Cover the front of the respirator with both hands, being careful not to disturb the position of respirator. b) Inhale sharply. A negative pressure should be felt inside the respirator. If any leakage is detected, adjust position of respirator and/or tension of strap. Retest the seal. Repeat the procedure until the respirator is sealed properly. 28

32 Appendix C1 Specimen example Standard Operating Procedures Authorised By: Checked By: Date of Issue: revised: SOP No: E06 Title: Entry to the Facility by Contractors Purpose The entry of people into the unit is controlled to prevent the ingress of microbiological pathogens harmful to laboratory animals, and to prevent undue exposure of contractors to animal allergens, together with the need to ensure the general security of the facility. Method Restrictions on Entry Any person who has been in another animal facility within the last 72*hour period will not be allowed entry; this is a standard period enforced between animal facilities due to the risk of carrying in pathogenic diseases to the facility that could compromise the health status of the animals held in the facility. In the event of an emergency (plant failure etc), contractors that have been in another animal facility within the 72* hour period and must have access due to the emergency, will have to shower into the restricted area together with, as far as possible, a complete change of clothing (supplied by the facility). General Entry to the Facility 1. All contractors will be required to report to reception, sign in using the Visitor s Book and be issued with a and information card and a Visitors Identity Badge. A permit to work in an animal facility is required to be completed by the contractor and authorised by a responsible person within the department before access to the facility is permitted. The Visitor s Identity Badge must be worn at all times while inside the facility. 2. Access to contractors will only be allowed within normal working hours Monday to Friday and only by prior arrangement where possible. Access is only permitted when accompanied by the manager or his deputy or members of the maintenance staff. 3. Access outside normal working hours will only be allowed when accompanied by either the Departmental Manager or his deputy or members of the maintenance staff. 4. When ready to leave the facility, place all clothing provided in the appropriate bin. 5. Press the white switch on the right hand side of the door to release the door catch. 6. Report to reception and return your Visitor s Identity Badge and and Card. Then sign out using the Visitor s Book. 7. Ask a member of staff to let you out of the building. * This time period is set for each animal unit and relates to the current animal health status. 29

33 Appendix C2 Specimen example Standard Operating Procedures Authorised By: Checked By: Date of Issue: revised : SOP No: E05 Title: Entry to department by EMBS Personnel Purpose The entry of people into the unit is controlled to prevent the ingress of microbiological pathogens harmful to laboratory animals, and to prevent undue exposure of EMBS personnel to animal allergens. Method Restrictions on Entry Any person who has been in another animal facility within the last 72* hour period will not be allowed entry; this is a standard period enforced between animal facilities due to the risk of carrying in pathogenic diseases to the facility that could compromise the health status of the animals held in the facility. In the event of an emergency (plant failure etc), EMBS staff that have been in another animal facility within the 72* hour period and must have access due to the emergency, will have to shower into the restricted area together with, as far as possible, a complete change of clothing (supplied by the facility). If it is at all possible EMBS supervisory staff should try to ensure that any of their personnel attending emergency calls into this animal facility have not entered any other animal facility within the last 48 hours. General Entry to the Facility 1. All EMBS staff will be required to report to reception, sign in using the Visitor s Book and be issued with a and information card and a Visitor s Identity Badge. A permit to work in an animal facility is requested to be completed by the EMBS staff and authorised by a responsible person within the department before access to the facility is permitted. The Visitor s Identity Badge must be worn at all times while inside the facility. 2. Access to EMBS staff will only be allowed within normal working hours Monday to Friday and only by prior arrangement where possible. Access is permitted only when accompanied by the Departmental Manager, or his deputy or members of the maintenance staff. 3. Access outside normal working hours will only be allowed when accompanied by the Departmental Manager, or his deputy or members of the maintenance staff. 4. When ready to leave the facility, place all clothing provided in the appropriate bin. 5. Press the white switch on the right hand side of the door to release the door catch. 6. Report to reception and return your Visitor s Identity Badge and and Card. Then sign out using the Visitor s Book. 7. Ask a member of staff to let you out of the building. * This time period is set for each animal unit and relates to the current animal health status. 30

34 Appendix C3 Specimen example Standard Operating Procedures Authorised By: Checked By: Date of Issue: SOP No: E07 Title: Clothing Purpose: This SOP is to ensure that the risk of harmful animal pathogens entering and spreading between rooms in the facility is reduced, and also to protect personnel from potentially harmful animal allergens [SOP E14 Protection From Potential Animal Allergens]. The clothing for the building is colour coded to ensure that personnel are working on the correct level and the movement between floors is controlled. Method: 1. Enter the changing area using your swipe card. 2. Attached to this S.O.P and on the walls of the main changing areas, instructions are posted telling you of the clothing requirements for each level of the building, follow the instructions for the category of staff that you are e.g. user or department staff. 3. All of the required clothing is found in the stacking boxes on the right hand side of the changing room. 4. If you require storage for your outdoor clothing then please use of the plastic boxes provided and store this on top of the lockers. 5. Before leaving the changing area please make sure that you are wearing one of the disposable mop caps. 6. Leave the changing area by the opposite door. 7. Before entering the main facility sit on the bench and put on a pair of white overshoes [if you do not have shoes provided for you] taking care not to put feet down on the changing room side of the barrier. Swing legs over barrier, placing overshoe covered feet onto floor of the clean side of the barrier. 8. You are now able to make your way to the area of the building that you intend to work in. If you are working on Level 2, remove your travel gown when you reach the open storage area on that level. Animal rooms 1. Step over the rodent barrier into the procedure room. 2. Once inside the procedure room, put on room gown [grey] and blue overshoes, these are to be worn over any gowns and white overshoes used to travel to that floor. Masks and gloves should be worn for procedures described in SOP E14 Protection from Potential Animal Allergens in the department. These items are found in the trolley just inside the door to the procedure room. 3. You are now able to enter the animal room. 4. On leaving, remove the mask, gloves and blue overshoes and place them in the bin found in the procedure room. 31

35 5. As described in SOP E10 Movement of People within the department, you may wear the clothing that you are dressed in to work in areas on a lower level of the building, but you cannot return to a higher level on the same day. Leaving the building 1. Step over the rodent barrier and place your white cover shoes into the bin labelled dirty. 2. Enter the main changing area and place all disposable clothing in the waste bin. 3. Place the clothing in the laundry bin. 4. Wash hands. 5. Collect your clothes from the locker/storage box. Once dressed you are able to leave the changing area. Maintenance staff/contractors Unless instructed at the time of completing the Permit to Work on arrival the following clothing requirements must be followed: 1. Collect a disposable suit from the Stores Office. 2. Put this on and leave the changing area via the opposite door. If working on Level 2, put on a grey gown on top of this white suit until you reach the open storage area on this level where it can be removed and placed on the hooks provided. 3. You are now able to work in the area that you require to. Entering animal rooms 1. Step over the rodent barrier into the animal room. 2. Once inside the animal room, dress in a room gown, mask, gloves and blue overshoes. These are found in the trolley just inside the door to the procedure room. 3. You are now able to enter the animal room. 4. On leaving, remove the mask, gloves and blue overshoes and place them in the bin found in the procedure room. 5. Step out into the corridor area. 6. On completion of work, return to the main changing area. Leaving the building 1. Step over the rodent barrier and place your white cover shoes into the bin labelled dirty. 2. Enter the main changing area and place all disposable clothing in the waste bin. 3. Place the clothing in the laundry bin. 4. Wash hands Collect your clothes from the locker/storage box. Once dressed you are able to leave the changing area.

36 Clothing requirements for department staff Masks and gloves to be worn for all animal work [SOP E14] Hats and overshoes [or provided footwear] to be worn at all times. *Cagewash staff need to cover blue uniform with green gown when travelling to and from dirty side of their area on the ground floor. *Ground floor: Blue trousers and top Green gown for short visit involving NO animal work Level 1: Blue trousers and top Blue gown for short visits involving NO animal work Level 2: Burgundy top and trousers + Grey travelling gown [to be removed on entry to level 2] + 33

37 Clothing requirements for users Masks and gloves to be worn for all animal work [including class 2 cabinet!] SOP E14 Hats and overshoes [or provided footwear] to be worn at all times *Ground floor: Blue trousers and top Green gown for short visit involving NO animal work Level 1: Blue trousers and top Blue gown for short visits involving NO animal work Level 2: Burgundy top and trousers + Grey travelling gown [to be removed on entry to level 2] + 34