Introduction

Veterinary practice settings and other facilities that handle animals have a unique set of occupational health and safety issues. Like all other businesses in Washington veterinary clinics are subject to regulation under the Department of Labor & Industries' WISHA division. All veterinary clinics must have a written Accident Prevention Program in place identifying specific workplace hazards and interventions chosen to reduce each hazard.

Common Hazards in Veterinary Medicine

• Physical hazards - falls, animal bites, needlestick/sharps injuries, ergonomics hazards, ionizing radiation
• Chemical hazards - Anesthetic gas, ethylene oxide, insecticides and disinfectants, latex glove allergy
• Biologic hazards - zoonotic and vector borne diseases, live vaccines, asthma and allergies

Regulatory Information 

• WISHA Core Rules - Contains WISHA regulations for all employers including Employers Responsibilites, Employees Responsibilities, Safety Committees and Safety Meetings, Accident Prevention Program, First Aid, Personal Protective Equipment, and Chemical Hazard Communication
• Recordkeeping and Reporting WAC 296-27
• Ethylene Oxide, WAC 296-62, Part G - sections 07355 through 07389
• Formaldehyde, WAC 296-62, Part I - sections 07540 through 07548

Resources

• Washington State Veterinary Medical Association
• American Veterinary Medical Association
• Preventing Asthma in Animal Handlers
• Preventing Allergic Reactions to Natural Rubber Latex
• Occupational Health and Safety Issues in Veterinary Practice .  A Powerpoint presentation developed by WISHA/Policy and Technical Services staff. 
• Ounce of Prevention (Module 1) - A video to assist veterinary practice owners in developing safety and health and hazard communication programs.
• Ounce of Prevention (Module 2) - A video to assist in training employees on the hazards of working in a veterinary clinic.
• Safety Video Library - A searchable online video catalog.

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.