Keep workers safe from bird flu: OSHA publishes alert

Washington — In light of reports of avian flu in dairy cattle and “a small number of workers exposed to infected animals,” OSHA has issued a hazard alert.

Workers who face the greatest risk of infection are those who “handle sick or dead animals and other materials” that may be contaminated with avian flu.

OSHA advises these employees to refrain from 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.

Emphasizing that “there is currently no evidence of person to person spread,” the agency calls on employers to train workers on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention protocol for prevention from avian flu. Other tips:

• Wash hands with soap and water before using personal protective equipment.
• Use separate designated areas for donning PPE and removing it.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth after contacting contaminated material.
• Shower after every work shift.
• Leave contaminated clothing and equipment at work. Make sure laundry is washed at the highest temperature.

The alert also is available in Spanish.