On November 14th 2006, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced an update to its guidance on avian flu. The original guidance was released in March 2004.

This most recent version has separate recommendations for various types of employees, including: laboratory / health care workers, food handlers, poultry workers, and workers handling other animals. The guidance describes various avian viruses and their backgrounds, paying particular attention to the H5N1 subtype currently in Asia, Europe, and Africa. The guidance also indicates best practice precautions and protective measures. For example, in regards to hand protection, the document states the following:

• Wear lightweight disposable nitrile or vinyl exam gloves, or wear heavy-duty rubber work gloves that can be disinfected;

• Avoid touching the face and mucous membranes, including the eyes, with gloved hands that have been contaminated;

• Gloves should be changed if torn, punctured, or otherwise damaged;

• Remove gloves promptly after use;

• Gloves used should be appropriate for the activities, e.g., for some activities it may be more appropriate to use thick rather than lightweight exam gloves;

• Long-term use of gloves can result in dermatitis caused by prolonged exposure to perspiration. This can be alleviated by donning a thin cotton glove inside the external glove.

For more information, you may read the entire guidance (OSHA 3323-10N 2006) in the avian flu section of OSHA’s website.