Module 04 - Occupational Health and Safety

Chemical Safety

Experimental animal facilities routinely contain various chemicals such as detergents, disinfectants, anesthetics, tissue preservatives (e.g., formalin). Most staff will be familiar with safe work practices for use of these chemicals. A laboratory animal facility should be following the Canadian Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), which consists of labelling chemicals, provision of material safety data sheets (MSDSs) and employee education programs. A detailed discussion of all the chemicals used in experimental animal facilities, their hazards and safe use is beyond the scope of this module.

Radiation Safety

Institutions will already have a program in place to ensure work with ionizing radiation, including isotopes injected into animals as part of their research use, is done safely. Training and licensing of users and facilities are mandated. A detailed discussion of the use of radiation in experimental animal facilities, their hazards and safe use is beyond the scope of this module.

Remember: YOU are the primary person responsible for working safely in your laboratory animal facility!