Occupational Health and Safety Flashcards

What is the hierarchy of controls for workplace hazards?

Answer: Elimination > Substitution > Engineering > Administrative > PPE, with higher controls more effective

The hierarchy ranks from most to least effective: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.

Why is proper lifting technique important for ALATs?

Answer: To prevent musculoskeletal injuries: bend knees, keep load close, straight back, avoid twisting

Proper technique prevents back injuries: bend at knees, keep load close, maintain neutral spine, avoid twisting, use mechanical assists.

What vaccinations may be recommended for laboratory animal workers?

Answer: Tetanus, rabies (for NHP workers), hepatitis B (if blood exposure risk), and seasonal influenza

Vaccinations depend on species exposure: tetanus for all, rabies for NHP/carnivore workers, hepatitis B for blood exposure risk, influenza for NHP workers.

How should ALATs protect themselves when working with animals on chemotherapy drugs?

Answer: Chemotherapy-rated double gloves, gown, eye protection, handle cages in a biosafety cabinet per hazardous drug protocols

Animals excrete active drug metabolites in urine and feces. Use chemotherapy-rated gloves, gown, eye protection, and handle materials in a BSC.

What is the significance of incident reporting in occupational health?

Answer: Enables prompt treatment, identifies hazards for prevention, fulfills OSHA requirements, and documents for workers comp

Reporting ensures prompt medical treatment, identifies recurring hazards, fulfills OSHA requirements, and documents events for workers' compensation.

What are the risks of waste anesthetic gas exposure?

Answer: Chronic exposure may cause headaches, fatigue, reproductive effects, and liver/kidney damage; scavenging is required

Chronic exposure to waste anesthetic gases can cause headaches, fatigue, reproductive effects, and organ damage. Scavenging systems are required.