Encountering animals

Working outside in the spring months may mean working alongside insects and animals that could pose a threat to workers. OSHA offers the following tips for avoiding such injuries when working outdoors.

Insects, spiders and ticks

• Wear long pants, socks and long-sleeved shirts to protect against stinging and biting insects.
• Use insect repellents that contain DEET or Picaridin.
• Treat bites and stings using over-the-counter products that relive pain and reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid fire ants. Severe reactions to their bites can cause chest pain, nausea, loss of breath, slurred speech or swelling that requires immediate medical attention.

Rodents and animals

• Both dead and live animals can spread diseases such as rat bite fever and rabies.
• Always avoid contact with rats and other wild or stray animals. If you cannot avoid contact, wear protective gloves and wash your hands frequently.
• Dispose of dead animals as soon as possible.
• If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical attention immediately.

Snakes

• When moving debris, avoid placing your hands underneath objects whenever possible.
• Wear heavy gloves.
• Watch for snakes sunning on fallen tree limbs or other debris.
• If you see a moving snake, step back and allow it to pass. A snake’s striking distance is about one-half of the total length of the snake.
• Wear boots that are at least 10 inches high.
• If bitten, note the color and shape of the snake’s head to help with treatment.
• Keep bite victims calm and still to slow the spread of venom. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.