Occupational Health and Safety in the Care and Use of Nonhuman Primates

The field of occupational health and safety constantly changes, especially as it pertains to biomedical research. New infectious hazards are of particular importance at nonhuman-primate facilities. For example, the discovery that B virus can be transmitted via a splash on a mucous membrane raises new concerns that must be addressed, as does the discovery of the Reston strain of Ebola virus in import quarantine facilities in the U.S. The risk of such infectious hazards is best managed through a flexible and comprehensive Occupational Health and Safety Program (OHSP) that can identify and mitigate potential hazards.

Occupational Health and Safety in the Care and Use of Nonhuman Primates is intended as a reference for vivarium managers, veterinarians, researchers, safety professionals, and others who are involved in developing or implementing an OHSP that deals with nonhuman primates. The book lists the important features of an OHSP and provides the tools necessary for informed decision-making in developing an optimal program that meets all particular institutional needs.

Table of Contents

• Front Matter
• Executive Summary
• 1. Introduction and Overview
• 2. Background and Context for Occupational Health and Safety in the Care and Use of Nonhuman Primates
• 3. Identifying Infectious Hazards Associated with the Use of Nonhuman Primates in Research
• 4. Identifying Noninfectious Hazards
• 5. Risk Assessment: Evaluating Risks to Human Health and Safety
• 6. Occupational Health and Safety Regulations and Recommendations Applicable to Nonhuman-Primate Research Facilities
• 7. Risk Management: The Principles Underlying the Design and Implementation of an Occupational Health and Safety Plan
• 8. Personnel Qualifications, Training, and Continuing Education
• 9. Postexposure Medical Treatment in Nonhuman-Primate Facilities
• References
• Appendix A: Workshop Speakers
• Appendix B: Committee Member Biographies