How to Avoid Biological Hazards

Biological hazards pose a threat in more working environments than initially meets the eye, being produced by organisms that produce substances that can cause harm to the human body. They are most commonly found in places like research labs but are a risk in broader working environments where people work with other people, animals, or in unsanitary conditions. Organizations in industries such as medical care, farming, sewage, and waste collection are all key examples of businesses that should be undergoing regular risk assessments to prevent biological hazards. 

Since anything that can cause harm to people, animals, or plants can be considered a biological hazard, no workplace is immune and threats can arise unexpectedly, meaning sufficient preparation should be in place. The biggest risks tend to exist in workplaces that involve a large number of people working in unsanitary conditions, in labs, or outdoors. Some of the main factors to consider when evaluating the risk of biological hazards include contagious diseases, working with animals, the cleanliness of the work environment, and any biological materials which may be present.

Identifying A Biological Hazard

Once the biological hazards in the workplace have been identified, action can be taken to reduce their threat. All employees should be involved in the process of formulating a safety plan to ensure the risks from all departments are identified and addressed. Any risk that comes from people, plants, or animals can be considered a biological hazard and some more common examples include mold, sewage, stinging insects, bodily fluids, toxic plants, animal waste, and airborne illnesses such as cold and flu.

If an employee is working outside, there is an added risk when it comes to exposure to biological hazards and alone workers are another vulnerable group as they may not be able to find the help they need quickly. In more severe cases where someone might be unable to call for help, emergency procedures should be put into place as a hazard can appear in a very short period. By knowing how to recognize and prepare for a biological hazard, dangers are minimized so workers can go about their duties with little threat.

Preventing Biological Hazards

Providing protective clothing

In work areas where there is a risk of contamination, sufficient protective clothing should be provided to all employees which can be worn in areas such as laboratories. The gowns or coats should be worn before entering the area and then removed before leaving, keeping any hazards centralized and away from common spaces and home environments. Protective gloves are another essential which should be worn, with employees being sure to disinfect their hands before and after using gloves.

Undergo sufficient training

Even workers such as cleaners and tradesmen should be provided with sufficient instruction if they are to enter an area where biological hazards are present, with no unauthorized personnel being permitted to enter. All practices and procedures should be known and followed by all employees to protect everyone from the hazards, especially those entering with little or no knowledge of biological threats. 

Avoid cross-contamination

Making sure to prevent cross-contamination of organisms is crucial as it can not only skew important procedures but also poses a health threat. Separate areas should be set aside for the holding of materials, sterilization, collection of specimen samples, and any infected animals or plants to prevent them from having an impact on a wider scale.

Correctly store all materials

Safety cabinets and sufficient warning signs should be installed in all areas where biological hazards are present. To keep any dangerous materials in a controlled environment, stay on top of the cleaning of workstations, use of biological safety cabinets, and the airflow in a room. All employees or visitors to a site must be aware of the types of equipment and a biological hazard must be indicated by warning signs. Signage should make clear the degree of risk and instructions on what to do in an emergency.