Human Health and Safety for Animal Users

Working safely with experimental animals encompasses not only the people and the animals, but also the facilities, equipment, procedures we use, and environment.

Understanding how all the elements work together is essential for determining the risk of the work being done. It is important for everyone to understand the risks from the animals, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cleaners, biologicals, radiologicals, equipment, and environmental emergencies.

Training

Anyone working with hazardous materials (including animals, microorganisms, recombinant virus, chemicals, cleaners, radiation, and pharmaceuticals) is required to take UBC Safety Training courses. The courses are designed to introduce risk assessments, controls, and disposal.

UBC Biosafety Training

UBC Chemical Safety Training

WHMIS Training for general audiences

UBC Radiation Safety Training

Lab Ergonomics Orientation

Permits

Radiation permits are required if ANY radioisotope or sealed source is used in a study. For the CDM Gamma Irradiator please contact the facility directly for instructions of requirements. Please contact research.safety@ubc.ca for the forms and more information, visit the Radiation Safety Website.

Biosafety permits are required if animal tissues, cells, blood or other fluids are removed from the animal for the purposes of further study, then Biosafety approval is required. Please note that procedures such as ear notching are exempt. For more information visit the Biosafety Website and the Biosafety Committee Website.

Occupational and Preventative Health

All individuals working with animals must register with OPH. There is an assessment that allows the Occupational Nurse to assess what preventative measures are available for the individual. For more information visit the Occupational and Preventative Health Website.

Other Resources

Working Alone

Staying Safe After Dark on Point Grey Campus

Return to Work Program

Allergy Prevention & Maintenance

Supporting Healthy Pregnancy at Work

Indoor Air Quality

Mental Health Resources


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