FormHealth & Safety UnitPeople, Learning & Culturehealthandsafety@industry.nsw.gov.auINT15/98396v1 09-2015Safe work method statementJob Task Summary:Sample collection from Brucella suis positive dogs by private veterinarians.B suisis an important zoonotic disease. Up to 2% of people untreated die as a result of infection with Brucella suis.Feral pigs are the usual source of infection for people and it is suspected that infected dogs also pose a significant risk to humans.This SWMS is applicable to the following worker type:Persons collecting samples for B suis testing SWMS completedby: Kelli JohnstonSite:Veterinary clinics at various locations in NSWDate: 21.9.15Howto complete the form:1.Discuss with relevant workersthe steps, and associated hazards, risks and controls2.In the ‘Procedural steps’, list the worksteps in sequence ofhowthey will be carried out3.In the ‘Possible hazards’, list the hazards and risks for each step4.In ‘R1’ rate the risk without controls using the risk matrix (see over page)5.In the ‘Safety controls’ list how the hazards will be controlled and who is responsible to implementthe controls6.In ‘R2’rate therisk with controls (residual risk)using the risk matrix (see over page)7.Specify other requirements for the task8.Each person involved with this task must sign acknowledging that they have understood the stepsR1Risk without controls R2Risk with controlsPROCEDURAL STEP(S)POSSIBLE HAZARD(S)R1SAFETY CONTROL(S)PERSON RESPONSIBLER2Preparation for samplingZoonotic infection2CChoose location which can be easily cleaned/disinfected andlow people numbers and movements. If outdoors use disposable impermeable material to minimise spillage of body fluids onto ground. Perform in isolation room. Use disposable drapes to eliminate requirement to clean.Minimise number of people involved in procedureConduct procedure at a time people are not required to be in area and allow time for settling of aerosols afterwardAll people involved in sample collection and clean up wear PPE minimum of: oEye protection oP2 maskoDisposable overallsoGlovesoEnclosed footwearBe aware of resourcesoHealth and safety precautions for investigating zoonotic animal diseasesoAustralian Veterinary Association Guidelines for veterinary personal biosecurity at http://www.ava.com.au/biosecurity-guidelinesPrivate veterinarian, vet nursesand assistants2D
INT15/56218Page 2V3/05-2015PROCEDURAL STEP(S)POSSIBLE HAZARD(S)R1SAFETY CONTROL(S)PERSON RESPONSIBLER2oCollecting samplesHuman Brucellosis from exposure to infectious agent in blood or bodily fluids contacting mucous membranes (mouth, nose, eyes) or contact with open wound 1CPregnant women should avoid working with suspect or confirmed B suis dogsCover cuts and abrasions with impermeable dressing or clothingMinimise creation of aerosols or splashes of bodily fluids by:oCastration –closed methodoHysterectomy –as for pyometraoDystocia/retained fetal membranes –vaginal swab or membranes directly intocontaineroCaesarean –swab or aspirate fluids, pup or membranes directly into containeroUrine –cystocentesis preferred. If midstream wear PPE and plan how to deal with urine on floor/ground. Assume exterior of container is contaminated.Wash hands thoroughly with soapy water or antiseptic after removing PPEDo not eat, drink or smoke while conducting collection.On completion of collection, before removing PPE:oClean and disinfect re-useable equipment by submerging in warm soapy water or disinfectant rather than using running water to ensure aerosols are not createdoChlorine,iodine based disinfectantsand Virkon Sare effective if used at recommended concentration for the recommendedtime on clean surfaces or equipment. Hot water (60oC for 10 minutes) is also effective.Dispose of contaminated waste eg contaminated PPE using clinical waste systems (do not re-sheath needles)Private veterinarian, vet nurses and assistants2DCollecting samplesWorking with animals –injury from bites, scratches3BAssess temperament before handling and use PPE and handling tools if needed eg. Muzzle or chemical restraint.Do not attempt sampling if animal cannot be safely handledPrivate veterinarian, vet nurses and assistants3DCollecting samplesHandling heavy loads eglarge dogscausing back, muscle or joint strain3BAvoid lifting large dogs or use equipment or assistancePrivate veterinarian, vet nurses and assistants4D