Experimental work involving the use of animals is strictly regulated by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 which ensures that all animal research is carefully controlled and that those using animals are appropriately trained. IF AT ANY TIME, should you feel that you are developing an allergy – if you are sneezing, have itchy eyes or feel wheezy, notify your supervisor immediately. This does not bar you from working with animals as there are various aids and help that can be given to enable you to continue your work safely. Working with Rodents If your experimental work requires the use of rodents, Local policy, Bio CoP001: Management of Animal Allergens (AA), details the duties and responsibilities of staff and researchers in the control and reduction of exposure to animal allergens. All that are at risk from exposure to AA are required to follow this guidance. Register and complete the COSHH Health Passport System (CHPS) All staff/students are required to have a health record if there is a possibility of exposure to a sensitising agent such as Laboratory Animal Allergens (LAA) or other substances classified as sensitisers. Registration with the CHPS system will manage your health record (as required by regulation 11 of the COSHH Regulations) and is a requirement to access BVS managed animal facilities (if applicable). CHPS guidance document Document chps_passport_guidance_may_22.pdf (683.92 KB / PDF) COSHH Health Passport System (CHPS) https://www.ed.ac.uk/health-safety/online-resources/coshh-health-passport-system-chps Occupational Health Service https://www.ed.ac.uk/health-safety/occupational-health Risk Assessment All tasks with significant risks must have a suitable and sufficient Risk Assessment which will inform of any necessary control measures. Note that it is the responsibility of the PI/Supervisor to ensure Risk Assessments are in place and that any relevant information is communicated to their research group. Relevant information on control measures applicable to LAAS and other sensitizers can be found here: Risk Assessment https://www.ed.ac.uk/health-safety/online-resources/risk-assessments Health Surveillance Health Surveillance and Safety Critical Medicals | The University of Edinburgh Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) including the requirement for face-fit testing Respirator facefit testing | The University of Edinburgh Training Laboratory animal allergens training courses | The University of Edinburgh Central Area Safety Contact Jim Cameron Health & Safety Advisor (P/T seconded) Biomedical Sciences College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine Contact details Email: Jim.Cameron@ed.ac.uk Bioresearch & Veterinary Services (BVS) Neil Odey Facility Manager Bioresearch & Veterinary Services Email: neil.odey@ed.ac.uk This article was published on 2022-10-17
