Workplace Health and Safety Hazards and Emergencies

There are several possible causes of fire in the workplace. The most common are:

• unsafe actions by people, such as smoking in areas where flammable materials are present
• unsafe conditions, such as overloading electrical circuits, unsafe wiring and incorrect fuse sizes
• electrical malfunctions
• unsuitable storage of combustible materials
• friction, such as conveyor belts
• chemicals and liquids with low flash points (which evaporate at room temperature to create an explosive air/vapour mixture)
• flammable gases and vapours
• cleaning solvents
• oxygen tank may catch fire and/or explode.

Not all fires are the same. Depending on what is burning they are classified differently:

• CLASS A (water, dry powder, AFF foam spray & wet chemical) - combustible material such as wood, paper and fabric
• CLASS B (dry powder and CO2) - flammable liquid such as petrol, kerosene and alcohol
• CLASS C (dry powder) - flammable gas such as LPG and butane
• CLASS D (dry powder) - combustible metals such as potassium, sodium and aluminium
• CLASS E (dry powder and CO2) - electrical hazards
• CLASS F (wet chemical) - cooking fats and oils.

Fire extinguishers are an essential piece of equipment in workplaces. They are best used for small fires that can be doused with an extinguisher. Extinguishers are a requirement in every workplace regardless of other firefighting equipment. The extinguishers will need to be regularly checked, maintained and replaced as necessary to remain effective.

It is also important that the location of the extinguishers is visible and easily accessible for anyone who needs it. Should they be in an area that isn’t directly visible, there will need to be clear signage directing people to the extinguishers.

Different extinguishers should be used for certain fire classifications.

The most common types of fire extinguishers are:

When operating a fire extinguisher, you will need to remember the acronym P.A.S.S.

• PULL the pin. This allows you to operate the extinguisher.
• AIM at the base of the fire. This is where the fire fuel is.
• SQUEEZE the top handle or lever. This releases the pressurised extinguishing agent in the extinguisher.
• SWEEP from side to side until the fire is completely extinguished. Start using the extinguisher at a safe distance away and then start moving in closer as the fire diminishes. Once the fire is extinguished keep an eye on the area in case it re-ignites.

If you work in a position where there is a high fire risk then you should arrange to attend a hands-on fire extinguisher training program.

Emergency evacuations refer to emergencies that require a building or facility to have all people and in this case, animals removed safely until the threat has been removed or minimised. Check your workplace policy on removing animals in emergency situations. Human safety is paramount and in some emergency situations, you may be required to leave the animals behind. Emergencies that require evacuations can include any of the following:

• extreme weather including flooding, and bushfires (some of these emergencies are predicted and you will be notified whether you are required to evacuate)
• toxic chemical leaks and spills, including gas
• bomb threats
• explosions
• internal fire
• structural collapse.

If there is a fire or other type of emergency that requires an emergency evacuation the following 6 steps should be observed:

1. Remain calm - do not panic as this doesn't achieve anything and can scare others.
2. Alert others - verbally advise others and/or set off the fire alarm.
3. Call 000 - advise them of the type of emergency. The fire brigade will probably be the main responder as they deal with fire, bomb threats, toxic spills and hazardous waste. However, the police or an ambulance may also be required.
4. Safely contain or control the situation (if possible) - if the situation is a fire then close doors or use fire extinguishers, only if it is safe to do so.
5. Evacuate calmly - if there is smoke in the vicinity stay low, and cover nose and mouth. Inform others of the need to evacuate. If your workplace has one, follow the directions of the Fire Warden/Marshall. These people are specially trained in emergency evacuations and have the responsibility to ensure everyone in the building gets out safely and is accounted for.
6. Assemble at a designated area - wait for the emergency services. They will advise when it is safe to re-enter the building.

If the fire is the same size or smaller than a paper bin, not spreading quickly, and you know the main fuel involved, you may attempt to fight the fire using the correct fire extinguisher. However, if attempting to fight the fire puts yourself or others in further danger, the extinguisher is not having a positive effect on the fire or it's not extinguished in 30 seconds, you must cease fighting the fire and commence evacuation procedures.

As a consequence of evacuation, especially in the animal care industry, animals can become lost. It is important to follow workplace procedures in regards to animals in an evacuation. Other consequences include loss of equipment or stock if you have had to evacuate due to flooding or fire, and disruption to normal business operations which in turn results in a loss of income. 

Consider if there are people with hearing impairment, vision impairment, are in wheelchairs or have intellectual disabilities. Make them aware of the emergency and the need to evacuate promptly, and provide assistance as required.

Bomb threats are threats that indicate a building or facility has an explosive device somewhere on the premises. In many cases, bomb threats can be made over the telephone from an anonymous caller informing the facility there has been a bomb or explosive device planted or an individual has entered the facility with an explosive device strapped to their person. Regardless of the threat, they must be taken seriously, and specific procedures must be in place to ensure the safety of all in the building.

If you receive a bomb threat via the telephone, follow these guidelines:

• Keep the caller talking (do not hang up) as this may assist in tracing the call.
• Remain calm and do not say or do anything that may encourage irrational behaviour.
• Notify a colleague or your supervisor as soon as possible and have them call 000.
• Take notes of exact words or phrases that the caller uses. For example, the time of the call, any information that they provide such as when the detonation is supposed to happen, identifying features of the caller such as gender, approximate age, accent, and background noises.
• Switch off mobile phones and ensure others in the workplace do the same as they can be used as remote detonators.
• Check the immediate work area and public areas for any suspicious packages or bags.
• Do not evacuate unless your manager/supervisor or the police/fire personnel advise you to do so.

Consequences of a bomb threat or explosion include:

• fear and anxiety in workers and clients (both people on-site and those notified of the event)
• loss of lives, both animals and humans
• loss of business
• damage to property.

Armed hold-ups are a very real concern for the business community. Armed hold-ups are emergencies that involve an armed person or people. These individuals may be armed with a firearm such as a gun or a knife. Some of these offenders can be violent and aggressive and may be suffering from a severe mental illness or their behaviours could be the result of substance abuse. Commonly, armed hold-ups are caused by a demand for money or in some cases prescription drugs.

Employers and employees can follow precautions to prevent an armed hold-up, or at the very least, be able to assist police with a detailed description of the offender.

Some of the precautions that need to be considered to prevent an armed hold-up have been outlined in the following list.

• Cash register areas should be designed to deter thieves by ensuring members of the public cannot access the terminal. CCTV should be positioned over the cash register area.
• Ensure that members of the public cannot gain access to restricted staff areas (stock rooms, behind the counter, staff rooms).
• Be wary of early and late 'customers' and people behaving suspiciously or loitering near the premises.
• Utilise signage such as 'Please remove helmets before entering the building'.
• Practice taking mental descriptions of people and vehicles. For example, clothing, height, weight, tattoos, jewellery, property carried, car make, model, colour and year of manufacture.
• If the premises has an alarm or duress button installed, ensure that all staff has training in how to use it.
• Have emergency numbers handy, and if the telephone system has a speed dial, use it to program emergency numbers.
• Keep doors locked until all money is secured in the cash register (opening) and lock them before reconciling and depositing takings in the safe (closing).
• Have a height chart on the exit door.

In the event of a hold-up:

• Do what you are told, no more, no less.
• Try to memorise the details of the offender, including their vehicle. Write these details down as soon as you get the opportunity.
• If the workplace has a duress alarm, activate it as soon as it is safe to do so.
• As soon as the offender leaves, lock the doors and cease trading. Ask any customers that were present at the time of the hold-up to remain behind as witnesses.
• Ring 000 and ask for the police.
• Do not touch anything. Isolate the areas the offender has been in and do not contaminate the crime scene.

Consequences of a security breach including intruders or disturbed persons include:

• fear and anxiety in workers and clients at the facility
• loss of lives if weapons were used (both humans and animals)
• loss of business 
• damage to property.

External emergencies are those that occur outside of the workplace. They can be divided into either natural disasters such as weather emergencies or traffic emergencies.

Weather emergencies

Weather emergencies are uncontrollable natural disasters that can result in severe damage, destruction, injury and sometimes death. They can, on occasions be predicted, however, the severity of some of these natural occurrences is often underestimated.

Weather emergencies are caused by any of the following:

• thunderstorms including cyclones or hurricanes
• floods
• bushfires.

It is important to understand the most extreme of circumstances will require the evacuation of the facility and even the community.

State governments and local councils will often have an alert system in place that you can register for. This provides text message warnings if a weather-related event is expected for your immediate area. It is worth researching if such a service exists in your state/territory or city/town and registering for the alerts.

These types of emergencies can cause loss of power or clean water supply, structural collapse/damage and interior flooding. Having a workplace policy for dealing with weather-related emergencies is advisable, especially if your place of employment is in an area highly prone to these types of events. For example, North Queensland is susceptible to cyclones and thus structural damage, floods, power and clean water loss. Damage to the premises and also stress to animals can be caused by extreme weather events.

A flood has the ability to submerge a workplace along with everything in it, (animals, humans, equipment, machinery and furniture) causing much damage. 

Animals and humans are likely to get swept away and stuck in dangerous situations causing serious injury and even death due to drowning. Some other consequences could be:

• evacuation
• damage to property and business
• stress to humans and animals
• injuries to humans and animals
• disruption to the business.

If your workplace does not currently have a weather emergency policy in place, then suggest it to your supervisor. Things to consider when formulating this type of policy:

• Back-up power sources - for example, generator or battery.
• Alternative housing arrangements for animals - other establishments that offer a similar service to yours. You might be able to return the favour to them if need be.
• Insurance - hopefully this is already in place, however, the policy could refer to the applicable insurance policy and indicate the location of the policy documents so they can be accessed easily.
• Duties for specific employees - is someone going to be responsible for first aid? Is another person responsible for organising repairs? Who will be responsible for moving animals to a safe location?
• Contact numbers for assistance personnel - 000 should be used for immediate emergencies. However, there may also be a State Emergency Service (SES) number you can call as well as a veterinarian contact.
• Transport limitations - it is advisable to not drive during severe weather events as roads can be closed or obstructed. Have a backup plan in place if employees are unable to travel to a particular location or make it to work. The policy should caution staff about the dangers of driving through floodwater and advise them to always pay attention to signs, barricades and emergency personnel.

Traffic accidents

Other external emergencies may occur outside including traffic accidents. It is not uncommon to find severe accidents causing road closures and traffic congestion. Traffic accidents can involve:

• collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians, causing injury
• trucks turning over
• oil spills from engine fluid
• animals being brought in or out of the animal care facility run over or injured due to vehicles driving into the facility's parking area.

Compensation may need to be paid to the affected individuals for damage to them, their animals and/or vehicles and property.

Internal emergencies, as the name suggests, are emergencies that occur inside the workplace that require immediate action and can cause harm or injury to those who are inside the facility or building.

In addition to weather, there are also internal emergencies that take place, some of which include:

• loss of power
• water supply
• structural collapse.

Loss of power

Loss of power can come from more than just wild weather. There may be a power outage in the area, faults or malfunctions in electrical work, or issues with the power supply in the facility. Loss of power can have severe implications on the running of the facility, especially when there are certain types of medical equipment, computers, refrigeration for medication, and air conditioning relying heavily on electricity. Many facilities will have a backup generator that will kick in with the loss of power and offer a power supply to keep the facility operating until the regular power can be restored.

Water supply

Similar to loss of power, a loss of water can have dire consequences for a veterinary clinic. Loss of water supply can come from burst water piping in the streets, cutting off supplies to the clinic and surrounding community, or a malfunctioning hot water system on the premises. Without an adequate water supply, hygiene will be compromised as there will be nowhere to wash hands without running water. The water supply for animals and people will not be replenished. In the event of issues with water supply, you must notify management to determine the best course of action.

Structural collapse

Structural collapses can range from whole buildings to partial collapses from the roof. Roof collapses can result from wild weather causing water to seep into the ceiling from damaged piping. Water may seep into the roof cavity, weakening it and causing the roof to cave in and damage the interior of the facility. In some cases, wires from lighting can also be damaged and if in contact with water can make the area unsafe and unusable.

Injuries inflicted as a result of animal bites and scratches are a very real hazard in the animal care industry. In addition to the pain and discomfort, there is a risk of infection. In serious cases of injury, surgical intervention may be required.

The risk of being bitten is usually increased by:

• a disruption in routine for the animal
• being frightened by strange noises
• reactions to strange people and animals
• inappropriate handling of animals causing pain, discomfort and distress.

The risk of bites and scratches is greatly reduced by:

• correct animal handling training
• being able to observe animal behaviour and knowing when it may try to escape or become aggressive
• avoiding circumstances that may cause the animal to try to escape or react due to fear.

In the event of an injury the following steps must be taken to prevent further injury to staff and animals:

• Secure the animal (or have someone with the correct knowledge assist if you are unable to do this).
• For minor cuts, scrapes or bites bathe the affected area with an antiseptic solution (such as iodine). Note - do not bathe or wash the site of a venomous snake bite or a major wound that has an open laceration. Leave that for medical experts.
• Apply basic first aid, such as dressings to control bleeding.
• Seek medical advice or assistance for more serious injuries.
• Notify your supervisor of the injury and complete a workplace incident report form.
• If bitten you should seek medical attention as bites can cause serious infections.

Medical emergencies

Other types of medical emergencies may include:

Cardiac arrest/heart attack

Perform the DRSABCD emergency response process:

• Danger - check for any immediate danger to yourself, the victim or others.
• Response - check if the victim responds to a stimulus, call their name and touch them gently.
• Send for help - get someone to call 000 and request an ambulance, or if you are alone with the victim then do so yourself (put the phone on speakerphone).
• Airway - check the victim's airway is clear. Items such as false teeth, vomit and food items can create blockages.
• Breathing - is the victim breathing? If not then commence mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
• Circulation - does the victim have a pulse/heartbeat? If not, then commence Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
• Defibrillation - if your workplace has a defibrillation device then you can utilise it to regulate the heart rhythm. Follow the voice prompts on the device.

Electrical shock

Do not touch anyone who has received an electric shock until the power supply has been cut off at the mains. Often someone who has been electrocuted will need to be resuscitated.

Allergic reaction

Severe allergic reactions are known as anaphylaxis. People who have a tendency to suffer these types of medical emergencies will often have an auto-injector of medicine (known as an EpiPen) or your workplace first aid kit may contain one. Follow the administration instructions on the EpiPen.

Burns

Run the wound under cold water for around twenty minutes. Carefully remove any clothing (unless the fabric is stuck to the skin; in this case, leave it) and cover the wound with a clean, dry dressing. Seek medical attention for any burn that is larger than a twenty-cent piece or if it is oozing or extremely painful after basic treatment.

Providing immediate and effective first aid to workers or others who have been injured or become ill in the workplace may be the difference between life and death. Each workplace should have a:

• fully stocked first aid kit ready for use that is easily accessible
• representative who is trained in first aid rostered on during each shift.

If your workplace doesn't have these items or employees with training, discuss this with your supervisor. Potentially you could volunteer to set up a first aid kit or attend first aid training. Safe Work Australia has produced a Code of Practice called First Aid In The Workplace which may assist.

Hazardous substances have the potential to cause harm to the body. They may also endanger the environment if not disposed of correctly and have severe consequences if they leak or spill. The severity of a hazardous substance or chemical spill will depend on the type of substance that is being used. Some are more dangerous than others.

Incidents 

Major incident: an event where a highly toxic substance is uncontrollably released into the environment such as a gas leak, fumes, or smoke.

Minor incident: an event where there is a small spill of a cleaning substance, such as bleach or a disinfecting agent.

These incidents can cause the following hazards to both humans and animals:

• smoke inhalation
• inhalation of noxious gases
• absorption of toxins via the skin
• chemical burns
• slips, trips and falls.

Both incidents require action. However, one will require evacuation and emergency services assistance whereas the other will require a basic clean-up using personal protective equipment and suitable cleaning equipment.

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is an information document that, by law, a manufacturer must provide with the initial sale of any hazardous substance. An SDS provides information required to assess the health risks and handling procedures associated with any potentially hazardous substance.

SDS's provide the following:

• introductory details, including date of issue and hazardous nature, for example, if the item is poisonous
• manufacturer's details, including address and phone number
• product information, including physical description, properties and ingredients
• health hazard information, including health effects, first aid and advice to doctors
• precautions for use, including general precautions, personal protection requirements, volatility and flammability
• safe handling information, including storage and transport, spills and disposal and information on whether it is a fire or explosion hazard.

Major incident response

• Do not touch any hazardous substance or approach the immediate area. Instead, try to seal off the area by closing doors.
• Protect yourself with adequate personal protective equipment, which may include ventilation equipment.
• Raise the alarm, call 000 and advise them of the nature of the incident and the type of substance involved.
• Evacuate persons not involved in the contamination response.
• If it is safe to do so, evacuate animals also, although only if they are at immediate risk of injury or illness. If they are contained in another room or area it may be safer to leave them where they are.
• Follow the directions of emergency personnel.

Minor incident response

• Take care to protect yourself with appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles and other items as required.
• Remember that chemical odours can become quite overpowering in closed areas. Allow adequate ventilation if possible.
• Refer to the relevant Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for advice on how to clean up the particular substance.
• Dispose of the actual substance and any associated single-use cleaning items according to the hazardous waste guidelines on the SDS.
• Dispose of any contaminated equipment or materials if required.
• Advise colleagues and your supervisor of the spill, the clean-up that has been performed and any other action they need to be aware of. Use signage to warn about wet floors or odours if necessary.

You may have heard the phrase;

Infection control is an integral part of your responsibility as an animal care worker. When you are considering infection control, it is important to maintain a very high level of hygiene practices to reduce the spread of infection.¹

We are no stranger to regularly sanitizing hands or wearing a mask, and the reasons for these practices to be put in place are purely to help prevent the spread of infections. As you will have come to learn, several zoonotic diseases can be transferred from animals to humans. Appropriate infection control can minimise the spread of these diseases and prevent humans and animals from becoming contaminated.

Cleaning and disinfecting

Where animals are concerned, the environments you work in can become exposed to contamination very quickly. Therefore, appropriate cleaning and disinfecting tasks need to take place to help prevent any spread of infection. To maximise the effectiveness of infection control, a combination of cleaning and disinfecting should become a part of regular cleaning responsibilities.¹

It is important to consider that cleaning and disinfecting methods may vary depending on the surface or the type of equipment you are using. For example, you would not use the same cleaning equipment to clean kennels, pens, or cage flooring in the kitchen. You would also need to apply a certain procedure for cleaning clippers or surgery equipment. All staff must be trained properly when it comes to cleaning and familiarise themselves with the relevant safety data sheet for the chemical they are using.¹

Cleaning

When cleaning dirt, food, cat litter, faeces, or bodily discharge such as blood, urine and vomit, you should consider the following procedure:

1. Wear gloves, a face mask and appropriate protective clothing if it is likely the matter will splash (it is preferred to use disposable clothing that can be thrown out afterward).
2. Remove any faeces, dirt or bodily discharge before you start cleaning. Any loose dirt or dust should be removed with a cyclonic vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
3. Sweep with a broom before mopping.
4. Use detergent or soap to remove any stubborn dirt, scrubbing the area if necessary.
5. Once the area has been cleared of dust or dirt, the area needs to be mopped with the appropriate product and mop.¹

Disinfecting

Disinfecting should take place after you have finished cleaning the area. The use of disinfectants can maximise the cleanliness of the area and reduce the spread of infection. The following procedure outlines the steps that should be taken when using a disinfectant:

1. Ensure the area is well ventilated.
2. Wear gloves, a face mask and safety glasses (for situations that may cause splashing).
3. Correctly dilute the quantity of disinfectant you need according to the SDS. The disinfectant must be carefully selected according to the soiled area it is targeting and appropriately measured. It is important to consider the concentration of disinfectants. Some may be stronger than others to specifically target infections that are considered of higher risk of contagiousness.
4. Ensure you have left the disinfecting agent on the surface for the allocated contact time before wiping it if instructed to do so.
5. Rinse the area of any residual disinfectant on surfaces where any patients, staff and other people may come into contact with it, such as a cat's housing cage.
6. Ensure areas have completely dried before attending to the next patient. ¹

Isolation

In addition to regularly washing hands, sanitising and wearing masks when in contact with contagious diseases, isolation is a control that can be implemented. Upon discovering a contagious disease, the animal will need to be isolated.¹

Isolation wards

An isolation ward (ISO-W) is an essential area for all animal/veterinary hospitals. All ISO-W in the hospital need to be low-traffic and separate from the rest of the hospital. This includes having an alternative entry and exit to restrict people walking through the general hospital and treatment wards. Purpose-built ISO-W should be equipped with a separate ventilation system from the hospital, where extraction fans direct the airflow outside to prevent airborne illnesses from spreading through the hospital’s ventilation system. ISO-W will usually have an area where a footbath or foot mat is located. ¹

Footbaths and foot mats

Footbaths and foot mats are located at the entry/exit to the isolation ward where shoes can be disinfected before entering any other part of the hospital to prevent cross-contamination. They are an integral aspect of infection control.¹

Footbaths are shallow containers containing a disinfectant solution. Foot mats are made of spongy material that is saturated with a disinfectant solution where you would simply stand on the mat to soak the bottom of the shoes with the solution. Regardless of whether you are wearing disposable foot covers, you should always ensure you have used the footbath/mat before you leave the ISO-W and travel to any other part of the hospital. When using a footbath or mat, the following needs to be considered:

• The solution should be changed daily as a persistent organic matter within disinfectants reduces the effectiveness.
• It is important to consider the type of solution used and the frequency it needs to be changed, as some forms of bacteria require a higher level of disinfectant than others to destroy the bacteria present.
• Ensure WHS has been considered because these areas can become slippery if there are spills or the bottom of shoes are wet. ¹

Working in the ISO-W

The ISO-W must be identified with appropriate signage, including the PPE that is required before entering the ward (some signs should be erected around the ward to identify appropriate PPE). ISO-W staff need to be properly inducted and trained according to the ISO-W’s standard operating procedures. Once the patient has been triaged and suspected to have a contagious disease, they need to be admitted directly to the ISO-W for treatment via a separate entrance to the rest of the hospital. Staff in the ISO-W need to ensure they have signed in and out using the facility's logbooks (these are usually located on the outside of the ward and should remain in the same spot for quick accessibility). It is important that only delegated staff and patient owners are to enter the ISO-W.¹

All equipment that is used in the ISO-W is to be kept separate from other equipment and appropriately disinfected and cleaned between uses, particularly stethoscopes and thermometers. Do not remove any equipment from the ISO-W unless it is being disposed of. All equipment and PPE must be disposed of according to the appropriate disposal containers. (These containers have clear identifiers including images, so you know what type of equipment goes in which container). Whatever materials you use including blankets must be treated as though they are contaminated and need to be washed separately from all other laundry items. The ISO-W would generally be equipped with a laundry facility separate from that of the general hospital. Depending on the type of infection you are dealing with, it may be better to use disposable bedding such as puppy pads or dispose of any bedding as biological waste to prevent the infection from spreading. ¹

Procedure

The following are some of the procedures that should be considered when using an ISO-W in a veterinary hospital.

1. Sign in to the ward using the facility's logbook.
2. Ensure footwear has been covered with disposable foot covers before entering the ISO-W. If you are not using your everyday footwear and have a separate pair, these shoes need to be donned and the everyday footwear left at the entrance of the isolated room.
3. Wash hands thoroughly and apply double gloves before treating the patient.
4. Wear appropriate PPE including face masks and disposable clothing if instructed.
5. Consult with the triaged patient.
6. Once triage and treatment has been completed, clean the surface with the appropriate level of disinfectant and allow it to stand for the allocated time before treating any other patient.
7. Dispose of any equipment in the appropriate containers.
8. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and sanitiser after treatment and cleaning.
9. Dispose of nitrile gloves in biological waste.
10. Remove shoe covers and dispose of them in biological waste. 
11. Ensure shoes have been properly washed in a footbath with an appropriate disinfectant solution or shoes have been cleaned on a foot mat before entering any other part of the hospital to prevent any cross-contamination. Shoes should undergo this process regardless of wearing foot covers or not.¹

A final note on working in the ISO-W. Effective communication must take place between the staff. The lines of communication must always be open because you are working in a ward where infection can be spread if communication is not adhered to. In these settings, text messages or emails are a quick and efficient way to report suspected infection and act swiftly. ¹

Cleaning equipment and other items

There are several items you will need to consider regarding cleaning when working in either the ISO-W or in the general veterinary hospital. The following table illustrates the type of equipment and cleaning technique that should be applied.¹

The animal care industry has several common hazards that can occur in the workplace. For each of these hazards, there are control measures that can be implemented so workers and visitors are not exposed to the risks from these potential hazards.

Workplace hazards in the animal care industry 

The most common workplace hazards in any animal care facility include:

• Animal handling
• Zoonotic disease
• Psychological hazards
• Ergonomic hazards
• Physical hazards
• Chemical hazards
• Hazards from machinery and equipment
• Radiation hazards
• Clinical and biological waste

Effective risk management involves four steps which must be documented within policies and procedures and also followed by all personnel.

1. Identify Hazards -
   Find out what could cause harm. These may be hazards caused by animals, chemicals, biological elements, and/or radiation to name a few.
2. Assess Risks -
   Understand the likelihood of a hazard causing harm and how serious it could be.
3. Control Risks -
   Implement the most effective control measure that is reasonably practicable in the circumstances.
4. Review Control Measures -
   Set up a regular schedule of review to ensure the most effective control measure is being used and also that it is working as planned.

Animal handling 

Animal handling is a very common task in the animal care industry and presents a very likely risk of injury. Caution should be taken whenever handling animals.

It is important to always observe an animal’s behaviour prior to approaching or handling it. By observing the behaviour and temperament of an animal we can better understand how we should approach and handle the animal. This also allows you to decide the most appropriate restraint technique and if additional equipment is required for your safety and the safety of the animal.

Other hazards such as zoonotic diseases may also present themselves when handling animals. To reduce the risk of spreading infection or contracting a disease, it is best practice to use effective personal hygiene strategies such as handwashing. Be cautious and use appropriate personal protective equipment when being exposed to animal saliva, blood, faeces, urine, vomit and placenta.

Zoonotic diseases

A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be transmitted from animal to animal or from animal to human. This is a hazard to workers in the animal care industry. Sometimes, you may not know that an animal is infectious before handling it, so it is always important to wear personal protective equipment.

Roundworm

Commonly occurs in dogs and cats but can also be found in other animals.
Symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Worms in stool

Scabies

Mainly occurs in dogs, pigs, and humans.
Symptoms include:

• Crusty lesions on the skin
• Itchy or irritated skin

Hydatid tapeworm

Can be found in infected dog and cat faeces and can also be found in other animals that eat raw sheep. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Anorexia
• Weight loss
• Weakness
  If the lungs become infected, symptoms can also include: 
• Chronic cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

Ringworm 

Ringworm is a fungal infection commonly found in cats but can also be found in dogs and other animals.
Symptoms include:

• Red and scaly circular rash
• Hair loss in the affected area

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a disease that is excreted through cat faeces. It is only found in the faeces of cats that are allowed outdoors.
Symptoms include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Muscle aches and pains
• Headache
• Fever
• Inflammation of lungs
• Inflammation of heart muscle

• Inflammation of eye

Salmonella

Salmonella is a large family of bacteria. Reptiles and other animals can carry a range of Salmonella in their intestines. When ingested by humans, this bacterium has the potential to cause severe intestinal disease.
Symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting

Staphylococcus

Staphylococcus is caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. Generally, Staphylococcus bacteria can live on the skin of mice and other rodents in small numbers without causing any disease in healthy animals. Symptoms include:

• Skin abscesses

Q Fever

Q Fever is a disease that affects livestock (most commonly sheep, goats and cattle) and cats. It is transmitted through urine, faces, milk, the placenta and amniotic fluid.
Symptoms include:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Malaise
• Fever
• Cough
• Nausea

Hendra Virus

Hendra Virus is a virus that infects large fruit bats (flying foxes). Occasionally, the virus can spread from flying foxes to horses and horses can then pass the infection on to humans. There is a vaccine available for this virus. Hendra Virus can be deadly to humans.

Avian influenza

Avian influenza is also known as ‘bird flu.’ This is a viral infection that spreads among birds. It can also be spread to humans, however, this is quite rare. Symptoms range from no symptoms at all to mild illness to severe.
Symptoms include:

• Conjunctivitis
• Mild flu-like upper respiratory symptoms
• Pneumonia with fever (temperature of 37.8ºc or greater) 
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle/body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Less common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea 
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Seizures

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by a bacteria called, Leptospira. The bacteria are excreted from the infected animal's body through urine. It is commonly found in mice, rats, cattle, pigs, and dogs. Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Severe headache
• Sore muscles
• Chills
• Vomiting
• Red eyes

Leptospirosis can develop into severe diseases, including:

• Kidney failure
• Jaundice
• Bleeding

Respiratory complications Complications may include: 

• Meningitis

Severe illness may require hospitalisation and severe leptospirosis can sometimes be fatal. Pregnant women or women trying to conceive should not handle any animals infected with leptospirosis. This disease can be fatal for the fetus.

Giardia

Giardia is an infection in the small intestine caused by a microscopic parasite. This parasite is called the Giardia lamblia parasite.
Symptoms include:

• Stomach cramps
• Bloating 
• Nausea
• Bouts of watery diarrhea

Hookworm

Hookworms are a parasite that affects the lungs, skin, and small intestine. It is commonly found in dogs and cats but can be found in most animals.
Symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Fever
• Blood in stool
• Loss of appetite
• Itchy rash
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Anaemia

Cat scratch disease

Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection contracted when you are scratched or bitten by a cat infected with the bacteria.
Symptoms include:

• Red bump, sore, or blister at the site of the scratch or bite
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Poor appetite
• Swollen glands

Psittacosis (also known as Ornithosis)

Psittacosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci that is carried by birds. Humans often catch the disease by inhaling dust containing feathers, secretions and droppings from infected birds. 
Symptoms include:

• Headache
• Fever
• Chills
• Weakness
• Muscle aches
• A dry cough
• Chest pain
• Breathless

Avian Tuberculosis

Avian Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that spreads slowly. Affects captive birds more than wild birds. Symptoms include:

• Local wound
• Swelling near the site of infection

Brucellosis

Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that is commonly found in cows, goats, sheep, and pigs. This disease is rare in Australia.
Symptoms include:

• Fever 
• Chills 
• Headache
• Weakness
• Joint and muscle pain
• Generalised aches
• Inflammation of the liver and spleen, and gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms may occur

Chemical hazards 

A chemical hazard is a hazard that may present when using chemicals in the workplace. Chemicals such as disinfectants are you will use daily in the animal care industry. If your skin, airway, or membranes are exposed to any chemicals there is a risk of injury or illness. Some examples of chemical hazards include:

• Sterilising chemicals – disinfectants
• Solvents

When handling and using hazardous chemicals, it is extremely important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment and only use the chemicals as instructed on the safety label. This includes diluting the chemicals safely and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should always read the MSDS/SDS if you are exposed to hazardous chemicals and seek medical advice.

Animal medication 

There are different types of medications used in the animal care industry. These include anesthetics, chemotherapy drugs, medicated shampoos, antibiotics, and preventative medications such as flea and tick treatments.

Depending on the workplace you are in, you may or may not be exposed to all these medications. Each category of medication poses different risks to workers.

To ensure any risk is minimized the following should be practiced:

• Medication must be clearly labeled.
• Manufacturers' instructions should always be followed.
• Personal protective equipment such as gloves should be worn when handling all medications. Extra PPE may be required when handling medications like chemotherapy drugs.
• Medications must be disposed of according to regulations.
• Drugs should only be handled and administered by a Vet or trained personnel. These drugs have strict recording regulations and need to be kept in a safe attached to the wall or floor of the building.

Sharps

Sharps include things like needles and scalpel blades. These hazards pose the risk of being stabbed or pricked.

To reduce the risk of being injured by a sharp we must:

• dispose of needles in a sharp’s bin or container
• never leave needles or sharps laying around
• never recap needles.

Manual tasks

Manual tasks are any tasks that require a person to lift, lower, push, pull or carry. Manual tasks also include moving, holding, or restraining any person, animal, or thing. An example of a manual task is restraining an animal or lifting a box. If manual tasks are not conducted correctly it can result in injury. To reduce the likelihood of injury it is important to use correct manual handling techniques and use lifting aids when required.

Noise 

Noise in the workplace may be from machinery or it could be from a kennel full of dogs barking. Excessive noise can damage your ears and result in hearing loss. Other consequences include interference with speech and concentration, fatigue, and aggression. If you are working in a high noise area, personal protective equipment must be worn. This may be in the form of earmuffs or earplugs. Doors should also be closed between areas to minimize the noise traveling to other areas of the workplace.

Machinery and equipment 

Hazards may present when using, cleaning, or storing machinery and equipment.
Some examples include:

• Using radiographic equipment (Risk: exposure to radiation)
• Washing a dog in a hydrobath (Risk: water leaks causing slips)
• Cleaning surgical equipment (Risk: Sharp instruments causing injury)
• Using high-pressure hoses (Risk: Manual handling)

When using machinery and equipment you must follow the manufactures instructions and use equipment and machinery appropriately. You should only use machinery and equipment that you have received training for. Personal protective equipment is also paramount to reducing risks.