Animal Bites
Approximately 1% of workplace
fatalities are associated with an animal
related event [1]. Injuries from animal bites and scratches are common, and can result in infection,
nerve damage, fractures, disfigurement and even death. Many of these bites are preventable.
Individuals working with animals should be knowledgeable in the proper procedures
for handling animals safely. Always
use appropriate personal protective equipment and safe work practices.
Report all work-related injuries to your supervisor and complete the injury form before proceeding to the Occupational Health
Service providers below; see
Incident and Injury Reporting. In case of severe or life-threatening injuries
seek medical attention first; if necessary call 911.
Wash minor
wounds or abrasions thoroughly with soap and water; apply antibiotic cream to prevent
infection and cover the bite with a sterile bandage. For deep wounds or if the skin is badly torn and bleeding, apply pressure
with a clean, dry cloth or sterile gauze to stop the bleeding and get medical attention
promptly.
Report animal [mammal] bites to the local health department or county health officer;
and quarantine domestic dogs, cats or ferrets involved in a human bite.
Larimer County : 970- 226-3647; Weld County: 970-304-6415; Boulder County: 303-441-4444 or 303-441-1564; Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: 303-692-2700 or 303-370-9395.
Additional
Resources
http://www.avma.org/press/pubhlth/dogbite/messpoints.asp
http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/CCAB/Related.htm _________________________________________________
[1] Langley and Hunter (2001).
Occupational fatalities due to animal-related events. Wilderness and Environmental Medicine 12: 168-174.
Last Updated September 28th, 2009