Occupational standards for the protection of employees in biotechnology

Abstract

 A growing number of employees are exposed to biological agents (BAs) at the workplace. Their handling can be associated with the risk of occupational illnesses like infections, allergic or toxic reactions. Several legal considerations are making requirements for the safe handling of BAs necessary. A specific risk assessment has to consider both the adverse health effects deriving from BAs and the exposure situation at the workplace. Industrial hygiene is of critical importance for safe handling, especially with regard to allergic reactions. Occupational surveillance programs can help to further minimize the risks, especially in preventing infections through vaccinations and in counseling persons with impaired immune systems. For accidental exposures medical emergency plans should be prepared. Occupational medical examination programs, vaccinations and counseling of employees must be adapted to the outcome of the risk assessment.