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Injury And Illness Prevention Program

Introduction

International Wildlife Research makes the safety and health of our wildlife responders the first consideration in operating an oiled wildlife rehabilitation program. Safety and health must be a part of every operation, and every responder’s responsibility at all levels. It is the intent of International Wildlife Research to comply with all laws concerning the health and safety of our workers and the public. To do this, we must constantly be aware of conditions in all work areas that can produce or lead to injuries. No worker is required to perform a job known to be unsafe or dangerous to their health. Your cooperation in detecting hazards, reporting dangerous conditions and controlling workplace hazards encouraged. Inform your supervisor immediately of any situation beyond your ability or authority to correct.

Safety First Priority

The personal safety and health of each wildlife responder is of primary importance. Prevention of occupationally-induced injuries and illnesses is of such consequence that it will be given precedence over operating procedures. To the greatest degree possible, International Wildlife Research will provide protective clothing and equipment for your personal safety and health, but our wildlife responders must bear primary responsibility for working safely. A little common sense and caution can prevent most accidents from occurring.

Individual Cooperation Necessary

To be successful, a safety and health program must embody proper attitudes towards injury and illness prevention on the part of supervisors and workers. It requires the cooperation in all safety and health matters. Only through such a cooperative effort can a safety program in the best interest of all be established and preserved.

Safety Rules for All Wildlife Responders

It is the policy of International Wildlife Research that everything possible will be done to protect you from accidents, injuries and/or occupational disease while on the job. Safety is a cooperative undertaking requiring an ever-present safety consciousness on the part of every worker, especially when handling wild animals. If a worker is injured, positive action must be taken promptly to see that the he or she receives adequate treatment. All operations must be planned to prevent accidents. To carry out this policy, the following rules will apply:

1. All workers shall follow the safe practices and rules contained in this manual and such other rules and practices communicated on the job. All workers shall report all unsafe conditions or practices to their supervisor.
2. The Operations Supervisor shall be responsible for implementing these policies by insisting that workers observe and obey all rules and regulations necessary to maintain a safe work place and safe work habits and practices.
3. Good housekeeping must be practiced at all times in the work area. Clean up all waste and eliminate any dangers in the work area.
4. Suitable clothing and footwear must be worn at all times. Personal protection equipment (coveralls, rubber boots, gloves, eye protection) will be worn whenever needed.
5. Anyone under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, including prescription drugs which might impair motor skills and judgment, shall not be allowed on the job.
6. Horseplay, scuffling, and other acts which tend to have an adverse influence on safety or well-being of other workers are prohibited.
7. Work shall be well planned and supervised to avoid injuries in the handling of animals and equipment.
8. No one shall be permitted to work while their ability or alertness is so impaired by extreme fatigue, illness, or other causes that it might expose them or others to injury.
9. There will be no consumption of liquor or beer on the job.
10. All injuries should be reported to the Operations Supervisor so that arrangements can be made for medical or first aid treatment.
11. When lifting heavy objects, use the large muscles of the leg instead of the smaller muscles of the back.
12. Do not throw things, especially material and equipment. Dispose of all waste properly and carefully.

Agreement to Participate

The information in this manual constitutes a written injury and illness prevention program. While International Wildlife Research cannot anticipate every workplace hazard, the following general principals should guide your conduct. To be safe, you must never stop being safety conscious.

Study the guidelines contained in this manual. Discuss the workplace situation with the Operations Supervisor. Attend all training meetings. Read all posters and warnings. Listen to instructions carefully. Follow the Code of Safe Work Place Practices contained herein. Participate in accident investigations as requested. Accept responsibility for the safety of others. Maintain all required documentation.

Training

Worker safety training is an essential requirement of an effective injury and illness prevention program. While International Wildlife Research believes in skills training, we also want to emphasize safety training. All wildlife responders should start the safety training by reading this manual and discussing any problems or safety concerns with your direct supervisor. You may wish to make notes in the margins of this manual where it applies to your work.

Safety and Health Training

Training is one of the most important elements of any injury and illness prevention program. Such training is designed to enable responders to learn their jobs properly, bring new ideas to the workplace, reinforce existing safety policies and put the injury and illness prevention program into action.

Training is required for both supervisors and workers alike. The content of each training session will vary, but each session will attempt to teach the following:
a) the success of International Wildlife Research’s injury and illness prevention program depends on the actions of individual wildlife responders as well as a commitment by IWR.
b) each responder’s immediate supervisor will review the safe work procedures unique to that worker’s job, and how these safe work procedures protect against risk and danger.
c) each wildlife responder will learn when personal protective equipment is required or necessary, and how to use and maintain the equipment in good condition.
d) each worker will learn what to do in case of emergencies occurring in the workplace. Supervisors are also vested with special duties concerning the safety of workers. The supervisors are key figures in the establishment and success of International Wildlife Research’s injury and illness prevention program. They have primary responsibility for actually implementing the injury and illness prevention program, especially as it relates directly to the workplace. Supervisors are responsible for being familiar with safety and health hazards to which workers are exposed, how to recognize them, the potential effects of these hazards, and rules and procedures for maintaining a safe workplace. Supervisors shall convey this information to the workers at the workplace, and shall investigate accidents according to the accident investigation policies contained in this manual.

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed in the rehabilitation facility or associated facilities.

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General Code of Safe Work Practices

General Fire Safety

The fire department is acquainted with our facility, its location and specific hazards.

Fire doors and shutters should be unobstructed and protected against obstructions.

Portable fire extinguishers are provided in adequate number and type and are located throughout the facility. Fire extinguishers are mounted in readily accessible locations. Fire extinguishers are recharged regularly and the date of last inspection noted on their tags

Compressed Gas and Cylinders

Compressed gas cylinders must be equipped with means for connecting a valve protector device, or with a collar or recess to protect the valve.

Cylinders must be legibly marked to identify clearly the gas contained.

Compressed gas cylinders should be stored only in areas which are protected from external heat sources such as flame impingement, intense radiant heat, or high temperature lines. Cylinders must not be located or stored in areas where they will be damaged by passing or falling objects, or subject to tampering by unauthorized persons.

Cylinders must be stored or transported in a manner to prevent them from creating a hazard by tipping, falling or rolling. All cylinders containing liquefied fuel gas must be stored or transported in a position so that the safety relief device is always in direct contact with the vapor space in the cylinder. Valve protectors must always be placed on cylinders when the cylinders are not in use or connected for use. All valves must be closed off before a cylinder is moved, when the cylinder is empty, and at the completion of each job.

Environmental Controls

All wildlife responders must be aware of the hazards involved when working with chemicals and the remedies that need to be used when an accident does occur.

First aid and caution signs will be conspicuously posted so as to alert individuals on a constant basis.

Charts identifying the chemicals utilized in the workplace, their symptoms and effects must also be posted.

The responders must know what the acceptable level of exposure to a chemical is and what safety systems must be in place when working with a chemical.

Staff should ensure that facilities are adequately ventilated in the presence of oiled animals or when using chemicals.

Hazardous Substances Communication

When hazardous substances are used in the workplace, a hazard communication program dealing with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), labeling and worker training will be in operation. MSDS materials will be readily available for each hazardous substance used.

The program will include an explanation of what an MSDS is and how to use and obtain one; MSDS contents for each hazardous substance or class of substances; explanation of the “Right to Know”; identification of where workers can see the employer’s written hazard communication program and where hazardous substances are present in their work area; the health hazards of substances in the work area, how to detect their presence, and specific protective measures to be used.

Material Handling

In the handling of materials, workers must know the following:

There must be safe clearance for equipment through aisles and doorways.

Aisle ways must be designated, permanently marked, and kept clear to allow unhindered passage.

Vehicles must be shut off and brakes must be set prior to loading or unloading.

Containers of combustibles or flammables, when stacked while being moved, must be separated by dunnage sufficient to provide stability.

Material Safety Data Sheets will be available to workers handling hazardous substances.

Infection Control

Technicians normally will handle cultures which contain animal specimens as blood or body fluids that carry infectious bacteria. The practices of a laboratory will include proper ventilation, emergency equipment, necessary protective clothing, refrigeration, hand-washing sinks, bio-hazard tags, labels, needle containers, detergents/disinfectants and a manual on emergency procedures in case of an accident. The training of the technician will include universal precautions, how to manage and handle a needle stick exposure, and how to dispose of these materials when finished with testing or evaluation.

The workplace must be equipped with the proper equipment to meet the safety precautions universally recognized by the state licensing agency. A general practice of cleaning and disinfecting the equipment and environment must be observed.

Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is your personal bodyguard to safety. PPE is designed to minimize exposure to oil, dirt, feces and urine; to prevent injury; and to prevent the transmission of diseases between husbandry staff and the sea otters. Some you can wear by personal choice, others you must wear. Your supervisor will inform you of what is required. Types of personal protective equipment that maybe worn are outlined below:

1. Work Clothing- The animal care staff should wear clean coveralls over their regular clothes to prevent contamination with animal food, feces and urine. Coveralls also will limit the introduction of domestic animal diseases into the rehabilitation center. Clean coveralls will be issued to each staff member at the beginning of a shift and laundered in the center after each use; they should not be taken home by the staff. Lockers will be provided for storing personal clothing and street shoes before work begins.

2. Rubber boots- The animal care staff should wear slip-resistant rubber boots that will keep their feet dry and protect them from injury. The boots should be kept in the rehabilitation center and the soles cleaned with a liquid disinfectant at the end of each shift. Maintaining clean footwear is essential for preventing the introduction of domestic animal diseases into the rehabilitation center.

3. Water-resistant Clothing- Water-resistant clothing (rain jackets and trousers) should be worn when cleaning oiled sea otters, moving animals between pens and pools, and during inclement weather. The rain gear will keep coveralls dry and prevent contamination with oil, feces and urine.

4. Gloves- Rubber gloves should be worn when cleaning oiled sea otters, assisting with medical procedures, preparing or handling sea otter food and whenever hands need protection from contact with oil, dirt, and feces. Wearing rubber gloves is especially important in preventing infection if a person has open sores or cuts on his or her hands. Heavy leather gloves should be worn when handling sea otters to protect hands from scratches and bites. Even though gloves are worn when working, hands should be washed at the end of each shift and before eating. Also, avoid touching anyone with gloved hands in case the gloves are contaminated.

5. Safety Glasses- Safety glasses should be worn whenever working with hazardous chemicals such as formalin and bleach. They will also protect eyes from detergent and oily water when washing oiled sea otters. Persons wearing contact lenses should also wear safety glasses, especially in the sea otter cleaning and drying rooms.

6. Hearing protection- Heariang protection may be required in high noise level areas such as around heavy equipment, aircraft, and internal combustion engines. These areas will be identified. Hearing protection minimizes harmful noise exposure, but also creates a need for greater visual attention.

7. Hard hats are required where there is a potential of being struck from above or striking something overhead, such as when working around and under piers and docks.

8. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) – PFDs must meet government standards and be labelled accordingly. PFD’s must be worn whenever there’s a risk of falling into water and in accordance to operating procedures.

Decontamination- Personnel involved in oiled wildlife response may have petroleum hydrocarbons, feces, urine and animal pathogens on their protective equipment which pose health risks to thmeselves and the animals. Decontamination, which includes cleaning, removing, and disposing of protective clothing, must be undertaken using standard operating procedures provided by the supervisor.

These contaminants must be removed after each shift. Assess your personal protective clothing to ensure that it is fully functional for the next shift. All unusable equipment or clothing must be returned to the response organization for replacement and inventory purposes.

Wear your personal protective equipment. Take good care of it, and it will take good care of you!

Work Environment, General

Work sites must be clean and orderly.

Work surfaces must be kept dry or appropriate means taken to assure the surfaces are slip-resistant.

Spills must be cleaned up immediately.

All combustible scrap, debris and waste must be stored safely and removed promptly.

Waste containers must be covered. Oily rags are combustible and should be discarded in sealable containers only.

All oil and gas fired devices should be equipped with flame failure controls that will prevent flow of fuel if pilots or main burners are not working. Ask your supervisor where these controls are located.

Make sure all pits and floor openings are either covered or otherwise guarded.

Walkways

All aisles and passageways must be kept clear. Also, aisles and passageways should be clearly marked.

Wet surfaces must be covered with non-slip material and all holes properly covered or marked with warning guards.

All spills must be cleaned up immediately, and a caution sign placed on all wet or drying surfaces.

In cases of passageways used by forklifts, trucks or other machinery, use a separate aisle for walking, if available. If no separately marked aisle is available, use extreme caution. Remember, walking in a passageway used by machinery is like walking in the middle of a street used by cars: You may have the right of way, but the heavier vehicle can’t always see you and can’t always stop in time. The key to moving around in such circumstances is to stop, look and listen and then to move when there is no danger. Make eye contact with the drivers of moving vehicles so that you know that they know you are there.

Equipment must be properly stored so that sharp edges do not protrude into walkways. Changes in elevations must be clearly marked. If there is a low ceiling, a warning sign must be posted. If the walkway or stairway is more than thirty inches above the floor or ground, it must have a guardrail.

If a worker is aware of any breach of these standards, please inform your supervisor.

Driving

Drive safely. If vehicles are used during the work day, seat belts and shoulder harnesses are to be worn at all times.

Vehicles must be locked when unattended to avoid criminal misconduct.

Do not exceed the speed limit.

Vehicles must be parked in legal spaces and must not obstruct traffic.

Defensive driving must be practiced by all responders.

Combustible Materials

All combustible scrap, debris and waste materials (oily rags, etc.) must be stored in covered receptacles and removed from the work site promptly.

Proper storage to minimize the risk of fire, including spontaneous combustion must be practiced.

Only approved containers and tanks are to be used for the storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids.

Liquefied petroleum gas must be stored, handled, and used in accordance with safe practices and standards.

Liquefied petroleum storage tanks should be guarded to prevent damage from vehicles.

All solvent wastes and flammable liquids should be kept in fire-resistant, covered containers until they are removed from the work site.

Fire extinguishers are selected for the types of materials and placed in areas where they are to be used. These fire extinguishers are classified as follows:
Class A – Ordinary combustible materials fires.
Class B – Flammable liquid, gas or grease fires.
Class C – Energized-electrical equipment fires.

Appropriate fire extinguishers must be mounted within 75 ft. of outside areas containing flammable liquids, and within 10 ft. of any inside storage area for such materials.

All extinguishers must be serviced, maintained and tagged at intervals not to exceed one year.

Extinguishers should be placed free from obstructions or blockage. All extinguishers must be fully charged and in their designated places unless in use.

“NO SMOKING” rules will be enforced in the rehabilitation center.

First Aid Kits

A first aid kit for routine cuts and abrasions will be located in every room in the rehabilitation center. If someone is injured, their supervisor should be notified immediately.

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Biological Hazards

Definitions

By law, an infection control plan must be prepared by every person that handles, stores, uses, processes, or disposes of infectious medical wastes. This infection control plan complies with OSHA requirement, 29 CFR 1910.1030, Blood Borne Pathogens. The plan includes requirements for personal protective equipment, housekeeping, training, and a procedure for reporting exposures.

Biological Hazard

The term biological hazard or bio-hazard is taken to mean any viable infectious agent (etiologic agent) that presents a risk, or a potential risk, to the well being of humans. Each supervisor has identified the specific biological hazard associated with your job, and the supervisor will arrange for your training if necessary.

Medical Wastes/Infectious Wastes

All laboratory waste emanating from animal tissues, blood or blood products or fluids; all cultures of etiologic agents; specimens of animal parts or tissues removed by surgery, autopsy, or necropsy.

Zoonoses

Zoonoses are diseases transferable from animals to man. Wildlife carry various bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites, some of which are transmissible to humans. Although there are few diseases known to be transferred from marine mammals to humans, two common diseases are salmonellosis and general bacterial infections due to bites or scratches (i.e., “seal finger”). Salmonellosis may be caused from the accidental ingestion of fecal material from an infected animal and results in abdominal pains followed by severe diarrhea. Bacterial infections of the skin are caused by the exposure of open sores and cuts to bacteria in the animal’s fur, feces, saliva, or food. Both medical conditions should be treated immediately under the supervision of a physician.

Blood-borne pathogens are a concern when working with wildlife. These pathogens include salmonellosis and hepatitis. Although direct transmission from marine mammals to humans is very rare, animal caretakers should be aware of the potential danger. The best prevention is to wear gloves when handling the animals, avoid direct contact with animal blood and other fluids, and wash your hands after handling animals. Animal care staff should wash their hands before eating, at the end of their shift, and after contact with animal feces and urine.

General Procedures

The following procedures must be followed by personnel when in animal care areas and veterinarian laboratories:

  • All supervisors must ensure that their staff is trained in proper work practices, the concept of universal precautions, personal protective equipment, and in proper clean-up and disposal techniques.
  • Eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics or lip balm, and handling contact lenses are prohibited in work areas where there is a potential for exposure to any health hazard.
  • Food and drink must not be stored in refrigerators, freezers, or cabinets where blood or other potentially infectious material is stored or in other areas of possible contamination.

In the clinical veterinary laboratory and necropsy laboratory, the following requirements apply:

  • Only authorized responders and visitors are permitted to enter.
  • Drinking fountains must be the sole source of drinking water for humans.
  • Lab coats must be worn whenever there is a possibility that body fluids could splash on skin or clothing.
  • Gloves must be made of appropriate disposable material, usually intact latex or vinyl. They must be used in the following circumstances:
    – When the responder has cuts, abraded skin, chapped hands, dermatitis, or similar conditions.
    – During instrumental examination of the otopharynx, gastrointestinal (G.I.) tract, and genitourinary (G.U.) tract.
    – While handling blood or blood products or other body secretions during routine laboratory procedures.

  • Responders must wash their hands immediately, or as soon as possible, after removal of gloves or other personal protective equipment and after hand contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.
  • Contaminated laboratory clothing must not be worn in clean areas or outside the building.
  • All procedures involving blood or other potentially infectious agents must be performed in a manner that will minimize splashing, spraying, and aerosolization.
  • Persons who are ill, pregnant, taking drugs that suppress their resistance to disease, or under eighteen years of age should not work directly with wildlife.

Practicing good hygiene, using common sense, and staying healthy will minimize the risk of contacting diseases from wildlife.

Medical Wastes

Medical/infectious waste must be segregated from other waste at the point of origin.

Medical/infectious waste, except for sharps (i.e., razor blades, broken glass, needles, etc.) capable of puncturing or cutting, must be contained in double disposable red bags conspicuously labeled with the words “INFECTIOUS WASTE” and “BIO-HAZARD.”

Used needles or other sharps (razor blades, broken glass, scalpels, etc.) must not be sheared, bent, broken, recapped, or resheathed.

Infectious sharps must be contained for disposal in leakproof, rigid puncture-resistant containers.

Floors, laboratory benches, and other surfaces in buildings where infectious agents are handled must be disinfected with a suitable germicide, such as 1:9 solution of sodium hypochlorite solution (household bleach) as often as necessary as determined by the supervisor.

Stock solutions of suitable disinfectants must be maintained in each laboratory.

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Chemical Safety

Introduction

The objective of this chapter is to provide guidance to wildlife responders who use hazardous materials so that they may perform their work safely. Many of these materials are toxic. Many chemicals are relatively non-hazardous by themselves but become dangerous when they interact with other substances, either in planned experiments or by accidental contact.

To avoid injury and/or property damage, persons who handle oiled animals and chemicals in any area of the rehabilitation center must understand the hazardous properties of the chemicals with which they will be working. Before using a specific chemical, safe handling methods must always be reviewed. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that the equipment needed to work safely with chemicals is provided.

Hazcom Plan

On May 25, 1986 the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) placed in effect the requirements of a new standard called Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.120). This standard establishes requirements to ensure that chemical hazards in the workplace are identified and that this information, along with information on protective measures, is transmitted to all affected responders. This includes wildlife responders treating sea otters oiled with Alaska North Slope crude oil, who fall under section 120.(q) (11) (ii) of the standards. Subpart (q) (11) is applicable “Where the clean-up is done on plant property using plant or workplace employees…”. An example of this would be the Sea Otter Rehabilitation Center where oiled otters are received and cleaned by staff in the confines of the facility.

This section describes how workers are informed of the potential chemical hazards in their work area so they can avoid harmful exposures and safeguard their health. Components of this program include labeling, preparing a material safety data sheet (MSDS), and training.

With regard to MSDS, International Wildlife Research has limited coverage under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. IWR is required to maintain only those sheets that are received with incoming shipments.

IWR must:

  • Identify hazards for respective work areas.
  • Ensure hazards are properly labeled.
  • Obtain/maintain copies of material safety data sheets, as required, of each hazardous material used in the work area and make them accessible to workers during each work shift.
  • Have the written Hazard Communication Program available to all responders.
  • Provide hazard-specific training for workers.

Wildlife responders must:

  • Attend training meetings.
  • Perform operations in safe manner.
  • Notify management immediately of any safety hazards or injuries.
  • When ordering materials, identify hazardous chemicals.

The number of hazardous chemicals and the number of reactions between them is so large that prior knowledge of all potential hazards cannot be assumed. Therefore, when the chemical properties of a material are not fully known, it should be assumed hazardous and used in as small quantities as possible to minimize exposure and thus reduce the magnitude of unexpected events.

The following general safety precautions should be observed when working with chemicals:

  • Keep the work area clean and orderly.
  • Use the necessary safety equipment.
  • Carefully label every container with the identity of its contents and appropriate hazard warnings.
  • Store incompatible chemicals in separate areas.
  • Substitute less toxic materials whenever possible.
  • Provide means of containing the material if equipment or containers should break or spill their contents.
  • Obtain and read the Material Safety Data Sheets.

The Niosh pocket guide is available to all wildlife responders and can be used to find more specific information on a known chemical. Chemicals are in alphabetical order. Information is provided on chemical composition up and characteristics, trade names, flash point, lower explosive limit (LEL), upper explosive limit (UEL), vapor pressure, health hazards and exposure limits, and first aid.

Properties and Potential Hazards of Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Petroleum is an organic liquid primarily containing hydrocarbons with smaller percentages of sulphur, nitrogen, and oxygen. Trace metals can also be found. The constituents can be vapor, liquid, or solid. The gaseous and volatile liquid fractions make petroleum highly flammable, irritating, and toxic if inhaled. Weathered crude petroleum, subjected to the interaction with water, wind, salt, and air, is not flammable but can be harmful if in prolonged contact with skin. The combination of oil and salt water is particularly harsh on skin. As the petroleum ages, it solidifies and congeals to a mousse consistency. This material adheres to beach rocks and objects, creating a slipping hazard for shoreline workers.

Petrochemical products are composed of aromatic and non-aromatic petroleum hydrocarbons. The chemical composition of each product will determine its toxicity to wildlife and personnel working in the rehabilitation center. Crude oil. diesel fuel, gasoline, and various grades of refined oil are the most common petrochemicals that are spilled. These products can range from light fractions such as gasoline, to heavy ones such as Bunker C. Petroleum products (oil) are not benign substances. Their chemical composition and physical properties pose both health and safety concerns. Benzene and hydrogen sulfide are the two most common hazardous chemicals found in oil.

Usually, the oil on wildlife arriving at the rehabilitation center will be weathered and contain negligible amounts of these volatile components. Nevertheless, the triage and cleaning rooms should have adequate ventilation to prevent the accumulation of petrochemical fumes. Along with wildlife, personnel at the rehabilitation center may be exposed to petroleum hydrocarbons. The primary routes of exposure are inhalation, absorption and ingestion.

1. Inhalation. Petroleum products emit volatile hydrocarbons called vapors or fumes. Their concentration and toxicity vary considerably. It is important to be aware of the hazards associated with vapors. Everyone has different tolerance levels to vapors; some people may show or feel the effects of petroleum vapors faster than others. However, do not let yourself be fooled! You may think the vapors are not affecting you when they are. Never rely on seeing ill effects in others as a warning that petroleum vapor is present. Inhalation of volatile petroleum hydrocarbons can cause respiratory distress, nausea, and dizziness; some of the ill effects of breathing petroleum vapors resemble drunkenness. Persons with these symptoms should notify their supervisor and leave the exposure area. If symptoms persist for more than several hours, the individual should seek medical attention. When suspicious of vapor levels, or if feeling effects of petroleum vapors, contact your supervisor. Remember, the absence of smell does NOT mean the absence of petroleum vapor.

2. Absorption. Direct contact with petroleum hydrocarbons can irritate the skin, especially sensitive areas around the eyes, nose and mouth. Injection as the direct result of a puncture wound can also provide a route of entry for petroleum hydrocarbons and bacteria. Immediately wash the area of exposure with soap and water. If oil contacts an individual’s eye, flush the eye with water for fifteen minutes. Notify the supervisor and seek first aid. Wear appropriate gloves, safety glasses or goggles when handling oiled wildlife to minimize the risk of absorbing petroleum hydrocarbons.

3. Ingestion. Although this mode of exposure is unlikely in the rehabilitation center, ingesting significant quantities of petroleum hydrocarbons may cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Do not induce vomiting. Notify the supervisor and seek immediate medical attention.

Supervisor Responsibility

Supervisors are responsible for establishing safe procedures and for ensuring that the protective equipment needed to work with the chemicals is available. Supervisors must instruct their responders about possible hazards, safety precautions that must be observed, possible consequences of an accident, and procedures to follow if an accident does occur. The supervisor is required to enforce the proper use of protective equipment and the established safety practices.

It is the responsibility of wildlife responders and all who use International Wildlife Research facilities to understand the properties of the chemicals with which they will work and to follow all precautions that apply to each specific task.

Supervisors must instruct their personnel about the potential hazards involved in the work, proper safety precautions to follow, and emergency procedures to use if an accident should occur. To supplement the supervisor’s training, IWR will conduct training courses. In addition, material safety data sheets and safety information, including hazards, health effects, potential routes of exposure, proper handling precautions, and emergency procedures on specific chemicals, are available through the Responsible Safety Officer’s office.

Effects on Reproduction

Both men and women may be exposed to hazardous agents that can cause infertility or result in genetic damage that is passed on to offspring. These agents include components of petroleum hydrocarbons, alcohol, cigarette smoke, pharmaceuticals, and some of the thousands of different chemicals that are used in the home or workplace. Although many of these have been tested to determine whether they cause acute (immediate) effects on the body, few have been studied to see if they cause cancer (carcinogens), birth defects (teratogens), or genetic defects (mutagens). Even fewer have been studied to see if they can cause infertility, menstrual disorders, or other disorders relating to reproduction.

The primary path for hazardous substances to reach an unborn child is through the placenta. Scientists now believe that most chemical substances or drugs can cross this barrier with varying degrees of ease and enter the system of the developing fetus. Thus, many chemicals and drugs that enter a pregnant woman’s body (through breathing, swallowing, absorption through the skin, etc.) will eventually enter the mother’s blood circulation and find their way into the unborn child.

In general, the important questions of exactly how much of the toxic substance that enters the mother’s body will reach the fetus or what concentration the fetus can tolerate without harmful effects are not yet answered.

The fetus may be most vulnerable in the early weeks of pregnancy, but it is also at risk later in pregnancy. In light of the potential harm of workplace exposures to both a pregnant woman and her developing fetus, it is very important and required by International Wildlife Research policy for the woman to inform their supervisor of her pregnancy immediately.

Labels

All containers (including glassware, safety cans, plastic squeeze bottles) must have labels that identify their chemical contents. Labels should also contain information on the hazards associated with the use of the chemical. Precautionary labels are available from your supervisor for most of the common chemicals.

Chemical Storage

The separation of chemicals (solids or liquids) during storage is necessary to reduce the possibility of unwanted chemical reactions caused by accidental mixing. Use either distance or barriers (e.g., trays) to isolate chemicals into the following groups:

  • Flammable liquids (e.g., acetone, benzene, ethers, alcohols). Place in approved fire lockers.
  • Other liquids (e.g., chloroform, trichloroethane).
  • Acids (e.g., nitric, sulfuric, hydrochloric, perchloric). * Treat acetic acid as a flammable liquid.
  • Bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide).

    • Chemicals must not be stored in the same refrigerator used for food storage. Refrigerators used for storing chemicals must be appropriately identified by placing a label on the door (labels may be obtained from Responsible Safety Officer).

    Emergencies

    In case of an emergency, consider any of the following actions if appropriate:

    • Evacuate people from the area.
    • Isolate the area.
    • If the material is flammable, turn off ignition and heat sources.
    • Call the Fire Department or 911 for assistance.
    • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
    • Clean up; place waste in plastic bag for disposal.

    Disposal of Chemicals

    All wildlife responders using hazardous chemicals are responsible for disposing of these chemicals safely.
    Federal and state regulations mandate strict disposal procedures for chemicals. To comply with these regulations, all persons using IWR facilities must observe these procedures.

    In general the disposal of hazardous chemicals into the sanitary sewer is not permitted. Your supervisor will advise on the proper disposal of chemical wastes.

    In using chemical waste storage containers, certain procedures must be observed, as listed below:

    Incompatible chemicals must not be mixed in the same container (e.g., acids should not be mixed with bases; organic liquids should not be mixed with strong oxidizing agents).

    The following requirements must be met as a condition for pickup and disposal of chemicals:

    Dry materials (gloves, wipes, pipettes, etc.) must be securely contained in plastic bags and over packed in a cardboard box.

    Packages that are wet or have sharp protruding objects will not be accepted for pick up.

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Cryogenic Fluids

Properties

Handling cryogenic fluids safely is largely a matter of knowing their properties and using common sense procedures based on that knowledge. In the rehabilitation center, the most common cryogenic fluid will be liquid nitrogen used to preserve biological specimens. Liquid nitrogen has a boiling points below -73.3°C.

Safety Practices

During operation with liquid nitrogen, personnel must observe the following safety practices:

Liquid nitrogen containers (dewars) must be safety vented and protected against mechanical shock and damage. Glass dewars must be wrapped with fabric or fiber-glass tape, or otherwise protected to prevent flying glass in the event of breakage.

Proper transfer equipment must be used when moving liquid nitrogen from one container to another.

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Emergencies

Organization

International Wildlife Research requires that during every emergency an organized effort be made to protect personnel from further injury and to minimize property damage.

Each supervisor must know what to do during an emergency in his or her area and must be certain that his or her responders understand their roles.

Supervisors Responsibilities

During an emergency, the supervisor must:

  • Ensure that those under his or her supervision are familiar with the plan for the building, particularly the recommended exit routes and how to report an emergency.
  • Render assistance to the person in charge during an emergency, as required
  • Maintain familiarity with the shutdown procedures for all equipment used by those under his or her supervision.
  • Know the location and use of all safety equipment on his or her floor.
  • Keep wildlife responders from reentering an evacuated area until reentry is safe.

Wildlife Responder Responsibilities

  • Workers, other than emergency-response groups, involved in any emergency greater than a minor incident are expected to act as follows:
  • If there is threat of further injury, remove all injured persons, if possible, and leave the immediate vicinity. If there is no threat of further injury or exposure, leave seriously injured personnel where they are.
  • Report the emergency immediately by phone. State what happened, the specific location, whether anyone was injured, and your name and phone number.
  • Proceed with first aid or attempt to control the incident only if you can do so safely and have been trained in first aid or the emergency response necessary to control the incident.
  • Show your supervisor where the incident occurred, inform him or her of the hazards associated with the area, provide any other information that will help avoid injuries, and do as he or she requests.

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Fire Safety

Fire Department

The Fire Department is responsible for protecting people and property from fires, explosions, and other hazards through prevention and expeditious control of such events. In addition, the Fire Department provides first-response rescue and transportation services in medical emergencies.

The Fire Department’s inspection staff is responsible for ensuring compliance with fire safety and protection requirements and for reviewing all plans and procedures for compliance with these requirements; for inspecting and testing automatic fire protection and alarm systems and ensuring their maintenance and repair; for conducting fire safety and protection inspections; and for providing fire prevention recommendations. Other responsibilities include training responders in fire safety equipment, practices, and procedures.

All these fire protection and response functions are performed in conformance with OSHA regulations, State law, International Wildlife Research policies, and nationally recognized standards and guidelines for fire and life safety. The Fire Chief and the Fire Marshall have the authority to enforce applicable requirements of the Uniform Building Code; the Uniform Fire Code; National Fire Protection Association Codes (including the Life Safety Code), Standards, and Recommended Practices; and the fire protection provisions of OSHA Orders.

All wildlife responders must immediately report fires, smoke, or potential fire hazards to the Fire Department (dial 911).

All responders must conduct their operations in such a way as to minimize the possibility of fire. This means applying rules such as keeping combustibles separated from ignition sources and avoiding needless accumulations of combustible materials.

Supervisors are responsible for keeping their operating areas safe from fire. The Fire Department will provide guidance and construction criteria with respect to fire and life safety as well as inspections. The provision and maintenance of fire detection systems and both automatic and manual fire extinguishing equipment is the responsibility of Alyeska Pipeline Service Company. But the supervisor, who best knows the day-to-day nature of his/her operations, is responsible for notifying the IWR management of operations that change the degree of fire risk and will therefore require a change in the planned fire protection provisions.

Class A Combustibles

Class A combustibles are common materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, plastics, etc.

Fires in any of these fuels can be extinguished with water as well as other agents specified for Class A fires. They are the most common fuels to be found in non-specialized operating areas of the work place such as offices.

Safe handling of Class A combustibles means:

  • Disposing of waste daily.
  • Keeping work area clean and free of fuel paths, which can spread a fire, once started.
  • Keeping combustibles away from accidental ignition sources.
  • Keeping all rubbish, trash, or other waste in receptacles with tight-fitting covers when in or adjacent to buildings. (Exception: wastebaskets of metal or of other material and design approved for such use, which are emptied each day, need not be covered.)
  • Making frequent inspections and checks for noncompliance with these rules in order to catch fires in the potential stage.

Class B Combustibles

Class B combustibles are flammable and combustible liquids and flammable gases.

The use of water to extinguish Class B fires (by other than trained firefighters) can cause the burning liquid to spread carrying the fire with it. Flammable-liquid fires are usually best extinguished by excluding the air around the burning liquid. Generally, this is accomplished by using one of several approved types of fire-extinguishing agents, such as the following:

  • Carbon dioxide
  • ABC multipurpose dry chemical
  • Halon 1301 (used in built-in, total-flood systems)
  • Halon 1211 (used in portable extinguishers)
  • Fires involving flammable gases are usually controlled by eliminating the source of fuel, i.e., closing a valve.

NOTE: The flash point of a liquid is the minimum temperature at which it gives off sufficient vapor to form an ignitable mixture with the air near the surface of the liquid or within the vessel used.

It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that all Class B combustibles are properly identified, labeled, handled, and stored. If assistance is required, contact the Responsible Safety Office. Safe handling of Class B combustibles means:

  • Using only approved containers, tanks, equipment, and apparatus for the storage, handling, and use of Class B combustibles.
  • Making sure that all containers are conspicuously and accurately labeled as to their contents.
  • Storing, handling, and using Class B combustibles only in approved locations, where vapors cannot reach any source of ignition, including heating equipment, electrical equipment, oven flame, mechanical or electrical sparks, etc.
  • Never cleaning with flammable liquids within a building.
  • Never storing, handling, or using Class B combustibles in or near exists, stairways, or other areas normally used for egress.
  • In rooms or buildings, storing flammable liquids in excess of 10 gallons in approved storage cabinets or special rooms approved for the purpose.
  • Knowing the locations of the nearest portable fire extinguishers rated for Class B fires and how to use them.
  • Never creating heat that could ignite vapors near any Class B combustibles.

Fire Exits

Staff members should be familiar with the emergency exits and the locations of fire extinguishers.

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Gases

Introduction

This chapter contains guidelines and requirements for the safe use of compressed gases. It covers the use high-pressure gas cylinders.

Hazards

All gases must be used in a manner that will not endanger personnel.

Hazards associated with handling and use high-pressure gases include the following:

  • Injuries caused by flying objects accelerated by an explosion or pressure release;
  • Secondary accidents such as falls or electrical shocks;

Relief Valves Required

All systems, system components, and piping subject to over-pressures must be equipped with relief devices.

Cylinders

Only cylinders meeting Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations may be used for transporting compressed gases.

Each cylinder must bear the required DOT label for the compressed gas contained, except under certain specified conditions set forth in DOT regulations.

It is illegal to remove or to change the prescribed numbers or other markings on cylinders – do not deface, cover, or remove any markings, labels, decals, or tags applied or attached to the cylinder by the supplier.

Each cylinder must carry a legible label or stencil identifying the contents.

Do not repaint cylinders unless authorized by the owner.

Compressed-gas containers must not contain gases capable of combining chemically, nor should the gas service be changed without approval.

Cylinder Handling

Compressed gases should be handled only by experienced and properly instructed personnel. When in doubt about the proper handling of a compressed gas cylinder or its contents, consult your supervisor.

Compressed gas cylinders are dangerous when handled incorrectly.

Always assume that a cylinder is pressurized. Handle it carefully.

Never throw, bang, tilt, drag, slide, roll, or drop a cylinder from a truck bed or other raised surface.

If a cylinder must be lifted manually, at least two people must do the lifting.

Because of their shape, smooth surface, and weight, gas cylinders are difficult to move by hand. A truck or an approved cylinder handcart must always be used to move a cylinder.

If damaged, a cylinder can cause severe injuries, including lung damage from inhalation of toxic contents and physical trauma from explosion.

A pressurized gas cylinder can become a dangerous projectile if its valve is broken off.

When a cylinder is not connected to a pressure regulator or a manifold, or is otherwise not in use, it is extremely important that the cylinder valve be kept closed and the safety cap be kept in place-the cap protects the cylinder valve (do not lift cylinders by their caps).

Cylinders containing compressed gases should not be subjected to a temperature above 125 degrees F. Flames must never come in contact with any part of a compressed gas cylinder, pressure apparatus, hoses, etc.

Do not place cylinders where they might become part of an electric circuit.

Never attempt to repair, alter, or tamper with cylinders, valves, or safety relief devices.

Working With Gases

Always identify the contents of a gas cylinder before using it. If a cylinder is not clearly labeled, alert your supervisor.

Before using a cylinder, be sure it is properly supported with two metal chains or the equivalent to prevent it from falling.

Keep removable keys or handles on valve spindles or stems while cylinders are in service.

Connections to piping, regulators, and other appliances should always be kept tight to prevent leakage. Where hose is used, it should be kept in good condition.

Before a regulator is removed from a cylinder, close the cylinder valve and release all pressure from the regulator.

Before returning an empty cylinder, close the valve and replace the cylinder-valve protective cap and outlet cap or plug, if used.

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Seismic Safety

Wildlife Responder Responsibility

Each worker is responsible for the seismic safety of any equipment he or she brings in to the work area. Such things as book cases and heavy items must be securely fastened to the building. Also, shelves should be guarded to prevent falling objects. A bar or chain is recommended across all open shelving.

Miscellaneous Hazards

Earthquake safety measures have been developed to protect personnel in the event of a seismic disturbance. Sufficient protection is required to allow time for personnel to exit an endangered area without injury. All equipment, hardware, and objects inside and outside of buildings must be adequately restrained and/or anchored to ensure that they do not block escape routes during seismic ground motion.

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Traffic and Transportation

Accidents

Any accident involving IWR vehicles (included private, rented, or leased vehicles used on official IWR business) must be reported to the driver’s supervisor. If the driver is unable to make a report, another responder who knows the details of the accident must make the report.

Aviation

Air safety is a complex issue. Aircraft present many hazards to personnel, both as passengers and ground personnel. Spinning propellers and tail rotors are hazardous to personnel approaching or working around the aircraft.

Helicopters

When approaching or departing a helicopter, always establish visual contact with the pilot and proceed at the pilot’s signal. Remain within the pilot’s normal area of vision; never move towards the rear of the helicopter. Walk under blades in a crouched position. Blade tips may come within 5 feet (1.5 metres) of level ground.

NEVER walk up slope away from a helicopter, or down slope towards a helicopter.

Any loose articles of clothing must be properly secured before leaving the helicopter. Keep a tight grip on any loose items.

When traveling in a helicopter remain in your seat and do not change position while in flight.

Fasten seat belts.

The following precautions highlight some of the concerns that must be addressed:

  • No one will board or exit any aircraft unless directed by a pilot. Safe entry and exit procedures will always be followed, especially for helicopters. The pilot will provide a safety briefing.
  • Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are not required to be worn in aircraft, but sufficient PFDs must be provided for all on board.
  • Remember: The pilot is in charge.

Boats and Water

Response personnel working on or around boats are exposed to many risks. Special care should be taken to avoid injury when embarking, disembarking or handling lines.

Some Precautions include:

  • Wear a personal floatation device when in a boat or disembarking/embarking, or when around docking/mooring areas.
  • Handle ropes carefully.
  • Follow instructions of boat operators.
  • Stay clear of docking boats, particularly if it’s landing on the beach.
  • Under no circumstances are you allowed to operate a boat of any size unless trained.

Official Vehicle Use

International Wildlife Research requires that an operator hold a valid driver’s license for the class of vehicle that he/she is authorized to operate.

Responsibility

Each supervisor is responsible for restricting the use of Company-furnished vehicles to official IWR business only. They are also responsible for limiting use of such vehicles to properly authorized personnel.

Use of an official vehicle for a worker’s personal convenience or benefit constitutes misuse and is prohibited. Workers who misuse IWR vehicles are subject to dismissal.

All drivers of IWR vehicles are responsible for reporting any damage or deficiency. Repairs, adjustments, and maintenance can only be accomplished if the driver adequately documents and reports these items. Failure to report unsafe vehicle conditions can result in an accident.

Safety Belts

Responders operating or riding in company-furnished vehicles, or personal vehicles on official IWR business, are required to wear safety belts at all times. The driver should instruct the passengers to fasten their safety belts before operating the vehicle.