OSHA issues hazard alert on avian flu

Recent reports show a small number of workers have been exposed to avian flu via infected dairy cattle. As a result, OSHA has issued a hazard alert.

Workers at greatest risk of exposure are those who handle sick or dead animals and other materials that may be contaminated with the virus. OSHA advises workers to avoid unprotected direct or close contact with:

• Sick birds, livestock, and other animals;
• Animal carcasses;
• Raw milk;
• Feces and litter;
• Viscera and udders from lactating dairy cattle; and
• Surfaces and water that may be contaminated with animal waste.

While evidence suggests no current person to person spread, OSHA suggests that employers train workers on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocols to prevent exposure to avian flu. Workers should also:

• Wash hands with soap and water before donning personal protective equipment.
• Avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth after handling contaminated material.
• Shower after removing contaminated clothing.
• Wash contaminated clothing at the highest temperature possible.

The full alert can be found at osha.gov.