Veterinarians and their staff are exposed to an array of occupational hazards every day whether they work in private clinics, on farms or ranches, at food processing facilities, or in research labs. These hazards include:

• Physical hazards caused by animals (bites, scratches, kicks), medical equipment ( surgical lasers, x-ray equipment, sharps, autoclaves),  or general work conditions (slippery floors, unsafe ladder use, driving to worksites).
• Ergonomics-related hazards that include heavy or awkward lifting and awkward postures.
• Chemical hazards due to exposure to disinfectants, anesthetic gases, hazardous drugs, insecticides, surgical smoke, latex gloves, and agricultural dust.
• Disease-causing pathogens transmitted by needlesticks, animal bites or scratches, direct contact with contaminated items and waste, and inhalation. First-aid treatment of injured coworkers brings risk for contact with human bloodborne pathogens.

Like other businesses in Washington State, businesses that employ veterinarians and their staff are required to develop and implement a written Accident Prevention Program (APP) to identify and address worksite safety and health hazards.

Related topics:

• Accident Prevention Program (APP).
• Chemical Hazard Communication.
• Bloodborne Pathogens.
• Driving Safety.
• Ladder Safety.
• Office Safety & Health.
• Hazardous Drugs.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls.

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.