Implementing a medical surveillance program for animal care staff.
In animal research facilities, personnel may develop allergies or serious health problems as a result of exposure to chemical or biological agents. Medical surveillance is essential for evaluating the health of prospective or current employees and determining their risk of exposure to occupational hazards. The author discusses the role of institutional medical surveillance programs and presents considerations for implementing such programs.
Sharpe
Debra
D
Southern Research Institute, Birmingham, AL, USA. sharpe@bslsolutions.com
D017750:Animal Technicians; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D009787:Occupational Medicine; D017751:Safety Management / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration; D014481:United States; D014489:United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration; D017132:Workplace