Diseases of concern in the workplace

In Washington State there are a few diseases carried by insects (vector borne) and other animals (zoonotic) that pose a risk to workers. Click on the disease below to get information on that disease and what you can do to decrease the risk of exposure in the workplace.

Who is at risk for exposure to animal borne diseases

1. Persons who work outdoors or frequently come into contact with wild animals.
2. Persons who work with animal borne disease agents or work with animals in the laboratory setting. See below for resources on laboratory safety.

Regulation & Policy

Where exposure to animal borne diseases has been recognized as a hazard in your workplace the hazard should be included in your overall accident prevention program.

• WAC 296-800-110 Safe Workplace
• WAC 296-800-140 Accident Prevention Program
• WAC 296-800-160 Personal Protective Equipment
• WAC 296-842 Respirators
• WAC 296-800-220 Housekeeping, Drainage, and Storage

Resources

The following resources provide additional information on vector borne and zoonotic diseases:

• Washington State Office of Environmental Health and Safety
  Zoonotic Disease Program
• CDC Zoonotic Disease Homepage
• Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (CDC 4th ed.)
• Occupational Health and Safety in the Care and Use of Research Animals (1997)
  

How can I get help from L&I?

• To request a confidential workplace safety or health consultation, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/about.asp for no charge technical assistance.
• For help with controlling your claims costs, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/riskmanagement.asp for a no charge risk management consultation.
• Find information about filing a workplace safety & health complaint you may call or visit a local L&I office to file a complaint.
• Follow guidance in Steps To a Safe Workplace to create your safety program from scratch.
• For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.