will be used to indicate
a safety precaution to be taken. The basic guidelines are given below. Revised 1978, 1984, 1993, 1998, 2002, 2005 and monthly thereafter.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
This manual and these standard operating procedures are an ongoing team effort. You are part of the team. Quality compassionate animal care is what RAR is all about and what these policies are designed to provide. But policies alone are not enough. You are the key. Your concern, your knowledge and your understanding of the principles of appropriate animal care and use are essential to the research and education efforts of the University of Minnesota.
Communication is vital to RAR's team efforts. If you need information, if you have ideas for improving the system, or if you simply have questions about the way things work, please ask. Talk to a co-worker, supervisor, manager or the veterinary staff. The more we hear from each other, the better the team will function.
Become familiar with this Procedures of Animal Care Manual and be the animals' care giver. They are counting on you.
Cynthia S. Gillett, D.V.M.
Director
April 2002
| Important Numbers (Also refer to Directory ) |
|
| Business Office (general information, calling in sick) |
624-6169/Mpls |
| Veterinary Services Office (animal health reporting) |
624-9100 |
| RAR-CVM, St. Paul facilities |
625-5794 |
| 626-5654 |
|
[Mission Statement] [Fulfillment of the Mission]
You are a part of a team- investigator, animals, animal care, veterinary care!
[Ethics of Animal Use] [Federal Regulations] [University Regulations] [Regs Summary] [Inspections]
The regulatory documents for animal care and use are very extensive. Anyone interested in reading them may request copies from the Veterinary Services office (B305 PWB, 4-9100) or can obtain them from the RAR website. A summary of the basic principles are below.
Because of the variety of agencies and organizations that oversee animal use, RAR facilities are frequently inspected.
What is everyone looking for? A set of guidelines is given below. Different agencies may have a different emphasis. For example, AAALAC looks at more than just the facilities, it also looks at the program for animal care and use. AAALAC also allows some leeway in that they assess outcomes. The USDA regulations tend to be more specific.
An employee should receive a basic orientation to the department on their first day at Research Animal Resources. This should include the following:
Goal:
Procedures:
Responsibilities:
Membership in AALAS offers career minded Employees continuing education and career advancement opportunities. Membership information is available from the Veterinary Services office or on the Web at http://www.aalas.org
[Payroll] [Regents' Scholarship] [Mail Boxes] [Benefits]
Question 1. When and where do I get paid?
Answer 1. You will get paid every other Wednesday after 11:30 a.m., and you can pick up your check in PWB 1-525 if you work on the Minneapolis campus. Marilyn Mettenbrink is the person to see when picking up your check. However, when she is out the responsibility of distributing checks is reassigned to another staff member located in the same office. For employees working at Building 419 on the St. Paul Campus or Lions Research Building (LRB), your checks are usually delivered to you by your supervisor. RAR-CVM employees pick up their checks from the business office in E311 VTH.
Question 2. Do I accrue vacation and when can I use it?
Answer 2. You start accruing vacation from day 1 of your employment, however, you are unable to use any vacation until you have completed 1,040 hours. 1,040 hours is approximately 6 months of full-time employment. For newly hired employees, the vacation earning rate is 3 minutes/hour (approximately 1 day per month).
Question 3. Do I accrue sick time and when can I use it?
Answer 3. You start accruing sick leave from day 1 of your employment, and you can begin utilizing this time after the end of the first biweekly pay period in which you have been appointed. For newly hired employees, the sick leave earning rate is 3 minutes/hour (2 hrs/week).
Question 4. What is compensatory time?
Answer 4. Compensatory ("Comp") time is overtime which is accumulated and not paid out to the employee. Banked compensatory time may be used like vacation or can be paid out at a later date. The employee has the choice of utilizing this option or having their overtime paid out. In both cases, the hours are treated at time and one-half. The maximum number of hours allowed under the banked compensatory system is 80 hours.
Question 5. How is overtime authorized?
Answer 5. All overtime must be pre-approved and authorized by your supervisor. This authorization is conveyed to the business office by the supervisor's initials in the timecard. Without their initials authorizing overtime, no credit is given above your normal scheduled day. Make it your responsibility to make sure your supervisor follows through.
As a University department, RAR offers the Regent's Scholarship to all full-time employees, who have passed probation, except student appointments. This scholarship pays for tuition for classes taken. All applications for the Scholarship must be approved by your supervisor. All courses scheduled during non-work hours will be approved, unless they would interfere with the employee's ability to perform their work. Courses scheduled during regular work hours may be approved if there is a prior agreement between the employee and the supervisor as to how the missed time will be made up. Class schedules must allow for a minimum of a three hour block of work time before and/or after class. This agreement must be made in writing, signed by the employee and their supervisor, and attached to the Regent's Scholarship request form submitted to the Director. Lost work time may be made up by rescheduling regular time, or as vacation or compensatory time, as long as the appropriate procedures for requesting the time off are followed.
[Facility Access] [Personnel Health Program] [Medical Care] [Tetanus] [Tuberculosis] [Rabies] [Toxoplasmosis] [Orf] [Herpes B virus] [Other Diseases] [Protective Clothing] [Animal Handling] [Biohazards] [Noise] [Ergonomics] [Radiation] [Chemicals]
Minnesota employees are covered under the provisions of the Minnesota Employees Right-to-Know Act (MERTKA). The measures taken to comply with the above include careful adherence to the health and safety provisions in this manual. They include the use of employee training, shower facilities, work clothing, protective clothing and equipment, the employee health program, and reporting injuries, as well as equipment and room malfunctions to your supervisor.
1. Because of the possibility of introducing infection into animal colonies and the potential of exposing visitors to physical, chemical, or biological hazards, no unauthorized personnel or tours are allowed in animal facilities administered by Research Animal Resources. Some exceptions to this policy may be made by the Director, e.g. site visitors, collaborative studies, conferences and visiting scientists. Children under 13 are not allowed in the animal facilities without prior approval of the Director.
2. Should you observe any unauthorized person in the animal facilities contact either your supervisor, the manager or one of the veterinarians immediately.
RAR staff must have completed the RAR occupational health and safety training session before working in the animal facility. Employees are not allowed to perform tasks for which they have not been trained. Training is defined as RAR's training program for new employees or individual training by an Area Supervisor or designee. Refresher training may be required or may be requested by employees prior to performing any task. All injuries, including animal bites or scratches, physical injuries, chemical injuries, and overuse injuries (eg. carpal tunnel syndrome) must be reported by the employee to the employee's supervisor.
Research Animal Resources' occupational health program, in cooperation with Boynton Health Service and the Department of Environmental Health and Safety, is designed to prevent disease or injury resulting from workplace hazards.
At various points in this manual, this symbol will be used to indicate
a safety precaution to be taken. The basic guidelines are given below.
1. All personnel in contact with animals must have a current tetanus vaccination.
2. If you work with nonhuman primates you must receive a tuberculin skin test every 6 months, or if you have non-specific reactions to the skin test, a chest x-ray annually.
3. If you work with carnivores (dogs and cats) you may wish to be vaccinated for rabies and have titers run periodically to determine your level of immunity. Dogs and cats at RAR may not be protected against rabies, depending on their source.
4. Women of child-bearing age who work with cats should discuss toxoplasmosis with their physician.
5. Use of protective clothing and procedures when handling nonhuman primates, biohazard animals or other animals, as posted in the rooms, are required.
6. All animal bites and scratches should be washed promptly with soap and medical attention sought for severe wounds. Dog or Cat bites require notification of an RAR veterinarian (4-9100) so the animal can be quarantined for rabies observation. Nonhuman primate bites, scratches or exposure of mucous membranes to saliva, feces or urine, require additional procedures, including testing of the animal and the exposed person for Cercopithecine Herpes Virus I. See the section on Nonhuman Primates.
7. If rooms or cages are labeled with hazardous warning signs, be sure you are familiar with the procedures to follow to prevent exposure and with procedures in case of accidental exposure. Procedures for Research Animal Resources Supervisory Staff to obtain Emergency services
I. Fire or police: Call 911
II. Medical Assistance: Call 911
A. To obtain medical assistance for a staff member with a life threatening or critical care injury. The employee may go to the nearest medical care provider e.g., Fairview-University Emergency, Room 215, Unit J, 612-626-2700 (corner of Harvard Street SE and East River Parkway)
B. To obtain medical assistance for a staff member with minor injuries, aches, strains or sprains. Refer employee to Minnesota Occupational Health, 1661 St. Anthony Avenue, 2nd Floor St. Paul, MN 55104. Ph 651-842-5300; Fax: 651-646-0205
C. To obtain medical assistance for a staff member for an injury associated with research animals e.g., bitten or scratched by any animal, or any needle stick injuries. Boynton Health Service 3rd Floor – 410 Church St. SE, Mpls., MN Ph 612-625-8400
For non-human primate-associated injuries (bites, scratches, needle-sticks; splashing of feces or any bodily fluid onto any mucous membrane, e.g. eye, mouth, inside of nose; cage scratches), always send a Boynton Health Non-Human Primate Management Sheet (found in the non-human primate bite kit) along with the staff member.
PROCEDURES FOR WEEKEND, HOLIDAY, AND HOURS OUTSIDE OF 8AM-5PM
I. Fire or police: Call 911
II. Medical Assistance: Call 911
A. To obtain medical assistance for a staff member with a life threatening or critical care injury. The employee may go to the nearest medical care provider, e.g., Fairview-University Emergency, Room 215, Unit J, 612-626-2700 (corner of Harvard Street SE and East River Parkway)
B. To obtain medical assistance for a staff member with injuries, aches, strains or sprain. Bring or refer employee to Fairview-University Medical Center Emergency Dept., Mpls., Unit J, 6126-626-2700 (corner of Harvard Street SE and East River Parkway.
C. To obtain medical assistance for a staff member for any injury associated with research animals e.g., bitten or scratched by any animal, or any needle stick injuries. Bring or refer employee to Fairview-university Medical Center Emergency Dept., Mpls., Unit J, 612-626-2700 (corner of Harvard St. SE and East River Road).
For non-human primate-associated injuries (bites, scratches, needle-sticks; splashing of feces or any bodily fluid onto any mucous membrane, e.g. eye mouth, inside of nose; cage scratches), always send a Boynton Health Non-Human Primate Bite Management Sheet (found in the non-human primate bite kit), along with the staff member.
Notes:
1. Arrange transportation for off-premises care by transporting the employee in a U of M vehicle, calling a taxi cab, or contacting the U of M Police Department for assistance.
2. Boynton Health Service hours are as follows: Monday 8AM – 6PM, Tuesday through Friday 8AM – 4:30PM.
3. Minnesota Occupation Health hours are: Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM. Make sure you identify yourself as a University of Minnesota employee.
Vaccination clinics are offered periodically at RAR, or these vaccinations and tests may be administered at Boynton Health Service by appointment. Your supervisor is responsible for ensuring compliance with these programs. For information, contact RAR at 624-9100. A brief description of the pertinent diseases, and precautions are listed below.
Tetanus is a disease caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. Any type of puncture wound is at risk of infection by C. tetani and therefore precautions against tetanus are required for all personnel handling animals, or equipment that may cause injuries. Tetanus toxoid vaccinations must be given every 10 years, and boostered following a puncture wound if a vaccination has not been received within the last five years.
Tuberculosis is a serious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and occasionally by other mycobacteria. The incidence of Tuberculosis in humans is rising in this country, and antimicrobial resistance makes treatment difficult. The disease in nonhuman primates is decreasing in laboratory settings, primarily because of preventative practices that have been initiated. However, wild-caught animals are often exposed to infected humans, and the disease is a very real risk for all nonhuman primates. The disease may be subclinical (asymptomatic) in both humans and nonhuman primates for some period of time, culminating in serious pneumonias and other infections that can be fatal if not treated. Epidemics in nonhuman primates in laboratories can result in numerous deaths. Because of the presence of subclinical infections and the contagious nature of the disease, periodic testing of both animals and handlers is required to prevent transmission from infected humans to nonhuman primates.
There is little risk of transmission from animals to humans.
Skin testing of humans and nonhuman primates is performed every six months at the U of M. Incoming animals must undergo a quarantine period during which they are tested for Tuberculosis and other diseases. All personnel entering a nonhuman primate room must wear protective clothing with long sleeves, a face mask, gloves, head cover and eye protection. Additional protection must be worn if there are further risks of splashes (hosing down cages, cleaning teeth, dumping litter pans).
Rabies is a well-known disease of the central nervous system caused by the Rabies Virus. It is transmitted by saliva from infected animals and may gain entrance to its host by a break in the skin or mucous membranes, usually caused by a bite. Rabies is carried by many mammals, but the biting behaviors manifested by rabid carnivores makes them common sources of human infection. The disease is fatal in humans if post-exposure treatment is not given.
Prophylactic employee vaccination is available to RAR employees, and periodic titers can be run to determine if booster vaccinations are required. Dogs and cats that bite humans are required by law to be observed for 10 days to monitor for any clinical signs of rabies.
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan intestinal parasite of cats. Cat feces contains T. gondii eggs (oocysts) which hatch after 2 days. These hatched eggs are infective and may be ingested by other animals or humans and encyst in various parts of the body. Another source of infection is ingestion of cysts in undercooked meat. Disease caused by T. gondii is usually mild or even subclinical, but occasionally more serious disease, such as fever, lymphadenopathy, muscle pain, pneumonia and central nervous system impairment are seen. Infection of a pregnant woman can result in fetal abnormalities. A high percentage of humans have antibodies to T. gondii. This results in immunity, eliminating the risks to the fetus.
Precautions should be taken by women of childbearing age who work with cats. Recommendations include delegation of cage changing to men, daily changing of cat litter to remove unhatched eggs, wearing of masks and gloves and serologic testing of women to determine their prior infection status.
Orf is an infectious disease of sheep and goats affecting primarily the lips of young animals. The disease also goes by the names "Contagious Ecthyma,
Contagious Pustular Dermatitis, and Sore-Mouth". The virus may occasionally infect humans and is considered a zoonosis. Orf is caused by a poxvirus (genus Parapoxvirus). The virus is highly resistant to drying and may remain infectious in dried scabs for up to 12 years. Animals become infected by direct contact with lesions or the transfer of virus by contaminated equipment used on the animals. The disease in animals starts as papules or vesicles (small bumps and blisters) on the skin of the lips, nostrils eyelids, and ears. It may also affect the udder (nursing ewes) or the feet. Eventually the papules and vesicles break open and scab; these are often very sore and may be numerous. As the sores heal the granulation tissue will proliferate and produce masses with a "cauliflower" appearance. The course of the disease is 1-4 weeks with a 2-3 day incubation. Humans become infected with the virus by direct contact with infected sheep or contaminated equipment. The disease in humans is usually characterized by a single papular or pustular lesion (small bump/swelling) where the virus enters the skin (e.g. on the hand). The papule usually becomes painful and gradually becomes a firm weeping nodule. Regional lymph nodes may also become swollen. Usually the course of the disease lasts 2-4 weeks following a 3-7 day incubation. More widespread disease may occur as well as severe ocular lesions.
All persons working with sheep or goats must protect their hands by wearing gloves and washing hands as soon as possible after exposure. All equipment used on sheep should be washed and decontaminated. It should be remembered that gates and pens also may harbor the virus.
F. Cercopithecine Herpesvirus-I (Herpes B virus), see also non-human primate module
Most species of macaque monkeys (rhesus, cynomolgus, pigtail) can carry a virus known as B virus or Cercopithecine Herpesvirus-I. It is very similar to human herpes virus which causes cold sores. In humans, the monkey virus may cause an
infection of the brain and/or spinal cord that is fatal in a high percentage of cases, if not immediately treated. Infection in humans is rare, and most cases have involved contact with macaque monkeys. Immediate diagnosis and treatment has prevented disease in people.
Since B virus has a high prevalence in conventional primate colonies, and animals can carry the disease without showing symptoms, employees must assume that all macaque primates are infected and follow biohazard precautions (long-sleeved protective clothing, eye wear, gloves, head cover and mask) at all times. Use waterproof protective clothing and boots when creating a splash hazard. Immediately cleaning any wound or splash of macaque body fluids onto a mucous membrane is essential. If this happens, follow the procedures in the "Bite Kit" in all nonhuman primate housing areas. Results of subsequent testing of the animal by RAR and of the exposed person by Boynton Health Service will determine what further steps will be taken. Consistent caution and respect for the monkeys is always a good idea. In addition, if you ever spot what looks like a cold sore on a monkey, be sure to contact RAR (4-9100) before handling the animal or its cage.
The RAR occupational health programs is designed
to prevent exposure to diseases that are either common or may have severe
consequences. However, it is important to be aware that there are other organisms
harbored by animals that can potentially infect humans. This is especially true
for people who are immunosuppressed. You must, therefore, wear protective clothes
and gloves when handling animals. For RAR employees, this means that scrubs
are to be worn at work. It is advisable to take special precautions on the advice
of a physician if you have a medical condition that renders you immunodeficient. Eating or drinking is prohibited in animal use areas to prevent oral transmission of organisms that may be present on your
hands after handling the animals. Consult with your doctor or an RAR veterinarian
if you need more information on organisms of concern. In order to prevent exposure
of others, RAR scrubs are to be worn at work only, and laundered through RAR
When working with animals it is important to be aware of the risk of developing allergies to the animals you work with. If you become allergic to the animals you work with, your job can become quite uncomfortable and even unhealthy. If you have asthma, working with animals to which you are allergic can be a significant health risk.
Symptoms:
Allergy symptoms can range from minor to severe. People who are having an allergic reaction can get a runny nose, runny or itchy eyes, asthma (characterized by wheezing and shortness of breath), a skin rash or bumps, or gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. It is important that you notify your supervisor if you have any of these symptoms that last more than a few days or if your symptoms are severe.
How it happens:
People who work with or even near animals can become allergic to any animal species. The allergens are proteins that are found in animal body fluids and skin. These substances can stick to animal hair and dust particles and can float around in the air. Allergens are unique in each animal species. That's why a person can be allergic to mice but not rats, cats or dogs. It's also possible to be allergic to more than one species.
Relative Risk:
The incidence of animal allergies among people who work with animals may be as low as 10% or as high as 30%. This means that most people who work with animals are not allergic to them. If you are allergic to something (an animal species or anything else) you're more likely to become allergic to animals than a person who isn't allergic to anything. In a few cases, animal allergies can progress to asthma. If you think you're allergic to animals, contact your supervisor.
Prevention:
The most important part of preventing animal related allergies is to minimize exposure to animals as much as possible. The following practices may help you to reduce your exposure to animals:
VII. Safe and Humane Handling of Laboratory Animals, also see species-specific animal modules.
1. Do not attempt to handle an animal when you are uncertain of the proper method. Ask your supervisor or a member of the veterinary staff for training, or consult the references below. Remember not to surprise an animal when approaching it. Practice is required to build your confidence and keep the animal calm.
2. References- available in the RAR library (B302 PWB)
VIII. Sharps
Sharps (needles, broken glass, other sharp objects) must only be disposed in official labeled red plastic containers. Sharp items should not be placed in the garbage, as they pose a risk to anyone handling the garbage. Never recap a needle after using, unless it is unavoidable. Simply drop the needle and syringe intact into the sharps container. If recapping is necessary, only perform it with a one- handed technique or by using a recapping device.
Protocols using animals with biohazardous agents must have received special approval by the IACUC, including review by the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (DEHS). Animal holding rooms must be labeled with the hazardous agent and precautions to follow for personnel protection. Further information is available from your supervisor or a veterinarian.
The CDC manual describes four biosafety levels or animal biosafety levels, each of which requires a specific combination of work practices, safety equipment and facilities. The applicable biosafety level depends on the infectious agent being used. Biosafety level 1 applies to agents that do not ordinarily cause human disease. Precautions consist of standard animal care and management practices, including appropriate medical surveillance programs. Protective clothing is worn in the animal facilities (scrubs), face masks are worn when handling bedding and basic hygiene practices are followed.
Biosafety level 2 applies to agents that can cause human disease, but the potential for transmission is limited. Precautions include level 1 practices plus these additional precautions:
A biohazard warning sign indicating the hazard and precautions to be taken, and a Hazard Notification Form indicating the dates hazards are used is placed on the door if required. Access is limited to necessary, trained personnel.
Infectious wastes and cages are decontaminated prior to washing, usually by autoclaving.
Mask, cap, disposable gloves, shoe covers, and lab coats or gowns are worn in the animal room and removed before leaving the facility. Goggles or face shields may also be required.
Extra care is taken with potentially contaminated sharp items.
Biological safety cabinets or personal protective equipment, (e.g. respirator or face shield) must be used if experimental procedures have a high potential for creating aerosols. Biosafety level 3 applies to agents that can be transmitted by the respiratory route and can cause serious infection, while Biosafety level 4 applies to agents that pose a high risk of life-threatening disease. The U of M does not use any level 3 or 4 agents in animals.
Hearing protection is provided for personnel working in noisy areas, such as the cage washer or dog or pig rooms. Personal stereos with headphones may be used (note that playing music without headphones is not allowed in animal rooms), but it is recommended that the volume be kept low so that hearing damage does not result.
XI. Ergonomics- Making work fit the human body
Animal care is a physical job. It is important to perform tasks in such a manner as to prevent injury. Lifting can be a source of injury if not performed properly. When lifting, bend your knees, not your back, and get help with loads that are heavier than you can handle. If you are performing a repetitive task, take short breaks to allow yourself to stretch or perform some other activity that will use a different set of muscles. If you are concerned about a physical aspect of your job, consult with your supervisor. It may be possible to modify the work environment or provide equipment that will assist you.
1. Radioisotopes are unstable atomic nuclei. In laboratory animals they are most commonly administered in minute amounts and are used in research as well as in diagnostic or therapeutic agents. Irradiation, a procedure frequently performed on rodents on cancer studies, is similar to performing an x-ray and does not pose a radiation risk to personnel.
2. Work involving radioactive substances is generally performed only by investigators and their staff. RAR personnel should not enter areas labeled as radiation hazards unless they have been specifically trained in radiation safety and given permission by their supervisor. The principal investigator's staff is responsible for animal care (see references below). The Department of Environmental Health and Safety will certify that rooms and equipment are safe before they can be cleaned by RAR staff. If you have any questions on a radiation hazard, contact your supervisor, or Environmental Health and Safety (DEHS) at 6-0002.
3. Requirements for radioisotope usage in laboratory animal rooms are the following.
4. Slides: DEHS Autotutorial Slide Series - Radiation Protection.(Biomedical Library).
The basic training on chemical hazards is designed to familiarize you with all chemicals you use. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available in cage wash areas that describe each chemical used by RAR, the hazards it poses, and procedures to follow in case of exposure. In general, whenever using concentrated cleaners, you must wear rubber gloves, protective clothing and eye protection. Contact your supervisor if you cannot locate the proper equipment. In addition, any chemicals must be stored in their original containers with the original label the new container must be labeled with the contents and the date mixed or transferred. Treat any unlabeled chemical as a potential hazard. For assistance with a chemical spill, contact Environmental Health and Safety at 6-6002.
Additional information on chemicals used by RAR is located in the Appendices.
[Students] [General Policies] [Job Specifications] [Work Modules] [Conduct Code and Work Rules]
Research Animal Resources fosters a positive, cooperative work environment. To maintain this work environment, and to ensure the health and well-being of the animals we care for, it is necessary to establish policies and standards for personnel conduct and work assignments. Some policies may vary with different job classifications and reflect the different needs of different positions within the department.
· These employees are covered by the provisions of their collective bargaining agreement. Each employee will be provided a copy of the rules. These rules incorporate many federal and state employment laws and guidelines (e.g., wage and hour, safety and health, equal employment opportunity). Please keep the following facts in mind when you read these rules. Members may choose to pay full union dues which gives them full union voting rights. A lower union due, termed “fair share” may also be chosen. However, there are some restrictions on union benefits.
· Each department has discretion in determining certain specific policies. For example, starting times, work assignments and work schedules may vary between campuses or buildings due to different area requirements. The Department of Human Resources has several units that provide employee assistance. Counseling is provided for personal problems (e.g., chemical dependency) through the Employee Assistance Program. Employee Benefits handles questions on insurance, etc. Third, you have input into the process of determining the conditions of your employment through your bargaining unit.
· Research Animal Resources has had a long tradition of employing University students. Your services are as valuable to the department as those of the full time employee. The satisfactory completion of the tasks assigned to you are crucial to the goals of the department. University student employment policy is stated in the Student Employment Rules. The office and your supervisor have copies which are available for your reference.
· We request you consider the following during your employment at Research Animal Resources. First, exercise good judgment and conduct on the job. Ask questions from, and refer comments and investigator staff requests to your supervisor or Area Veterinarian. Second, the student work scheduling process is an enormous task. Please provide your supervisor with the information requested concerning your availability for work as far as possible in advance of a break, a new quarter or summer session. Third, always consider the need to complete assigned animal husbandry tasks each day. If you are unable to work on a given day, please call the office at your earliest opportunity, so that your duties may be re-assigned as effectively as possible.
Work clothing is provided for all employees working in animal rooms or cage wash areas. Employees must wear the clothing provided during working hours. Personal clothes may not extend beyond departmentally issued scrubs, overalls, etc. This means no long sleeve shirts under scrubs, no long pant legs extending beyond hem of scrub pants, no personal jackets, sweaters, etc. while working. Footwear (rubber boots) is provided on request. Closed-toe footwear must be used. Hearing protection is provided for employees working in dog or pig rooms and cage wash areas. Eye protection is provided for all employees working with concentrated chemicals and nonhuman primates. It must be worn when performing these tasks. Gloves are provided and are recommended when working with all animals. All work clothing is laundered exclusively by RAR. Friends and family of employees are not allowed within RAR secured areas without authorization from the Area Veterinarian.
Showers, toilet facilities and lockers are provided for all employees. Employees are urged to wash their hands thoroughly before eating or drinking and to shower at the end of the working day. (Daily showering will be required of those employees that handle animals and/or have significant responsibilities in animal holding areas. These measures are necessary to comply with federal and state health and safety guidelines).
No personal pets of any species may be maintained at RAR in any location. Personal pets belong at home, not in the workplace, particularly if that workplace is a research and teaching institution such as ours that uses animals in its many endeavors. This policy is necessary for consistency, fairness, and, in some cases, disease control.
The capturing of images (including photographs, video recordings, movies, or other images of any kind in any media) is strictly prohibited in all areas of the Research Animal Resources facilities, without prior approval of the Director for each instance. This policy applies to the capturing of images using any and all devices capable of recording images including, but not limited to, film cameras, digital cameras, video recording devices with or without audio recording, cell phones and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistant) with picture capabilities. The Research Animal Resources Director established this policy to protect the integrity and confidentiality of university research, provide a minimally disruptive atmosphere for animal residents, and promote a safe and respectful workplace.
· These positions are staffed by individuals with specific training and/or experience in the care and husbandry of laboratory animals and the use of animal care equipment in research animal facilities. Professional certifications demonstrating varying levels of knowledge of animal care requirements, procedures, and an understanding of the role of laboratory animals in biomedical research, are available through the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS).
· The work of individuals in this classification is described in specific Assignment Modules consisting of major areas of animal care and husbandry responsibility. Several specific duties and tasks within a module are given. These duties along with additional duties and tasks are listed and further explained in this manual. This manual is considered an integral part of this job specification. Technician assignments are comprised of varying percentages from the Assignment Modules so as to total 100% of their work time. Additionally, each technician, regardless of the number of assigned Assignment Modules or proportion of time assigned to specific Assignment Modules, is responsible for compliance with the Conduct Code and Work Rules Module throughout their work day. Performance evaluations will focus on the degree to which the Assignment Modules are completed consistently and comprehensively and on fulfillment of the requirements of the Conduct Code and Work Rules Module.
· Feeding, watering, and changing cages for small animals to include mice, rats, hamsters, ground squirrels, gerbils, guinea pigs, and chinchillas.
· Observing small animals daily to ensure they are eating and drinking. If not, or if they appear to be ill, report your observations as outlined in the section on Animal Health Monitoring.
· Completing the sections on Small Rodents, and Rabbits, Chinchillas and Guinea Pigs procedures, General Daily Procedures, and Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification procedures outlined in this manual.
· Complete procedures to provide routine medications or special services as instructed by your supervisor or a veterinarian.
· Feeding, watering, and changing cages for animals housed in the SPF (Specific Pathogen Free) barrier facility.
· Complete specialized training in working in the rooms with the laminar flow clean work stations and microcontainment cages.
· Complete the Small Rodents, General Daily Procedures, Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification sections in this manual.
· Feeding watering, and changing cages for rabbits.
· Monitoring the animals’ eating, drinking, and external characteristics e.g., nails, hocks, teeth, and ears which may need to be examined by the veterinary technician.
· Complete the Rabbit Care procedures described in this manual under Rabbits, Chinchillas and Guinea Pigs, the General Daily Procedures, Small Rodents, Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification procedures.
· Feeding, watering, and changing cages for cats and miscellaneous carnivores e.g., ferrets.
· Exercising care in approaching and handling these species as directed by the supervisor.
· Completing the cat care procedures under Dogs and Cats, the General Daily Procedures, Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification procedures.
· Feeding watering, and changing tanks or tub enclosures for terrestrial and aquatic frogs, newts, turtles, salamanders, and lizards.
· Exercising care in approaching and handling these species as directed by the supervisor.
· Completing the Amphibian and Turtle procedures described in this manual, the General Daily Procedures, Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification procedures.
· Feeding, watering, changing cages for dogs, sheep, pigs, and occasionally goats or calves. Birds to include chickens, turkeys, and occasionally, geese and ducks.
· Exercising care in approaching, handling, restraining, transporting, and exercising (dogs) these species as directed by the supervisor.
· Completing the Dogs and Cats, and Farm Animals procedures described in this manual, the General Daily Procedures, Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification procedures.
· Feeding, watering, transferring animals to clean cages for various species of nonhuman primates to include, but not limited to, cynomolgus and rhesus monkeys.
· Exercising care in approaching, restraining, and transporting these species as directed by your supervisor. Fulfill all occupational safety and health requirements prior to entering the rooms to include the use of protective apparel, review of animal bite/scratch procedures, tuberculin testing, and others as instructed and required.
· Completing the Nonhuman Primates procedures described in this manual, and the General Daily Procedures, Animal Ordering, Receipt and Housing, and Identification procedures.
· Maintaining animal holding rooms in neat and orderly fashion so as to include only the minimum equipment that is needed in the room to maintain the animals.
· Maintaining feed and bedding storage rooms so as provide storage of only those supplies in labeled packaging which includes milling dates, manufacturer, and nutrient ingredients. Products are stored off the floor and away from the walls.
· Maintaining cage washer, receiving, and other support areas so as to enable passage through the room or areas. Cage wash rooms are to be maintained with a separation between soiled and clean equipment and with clearly identifiable waste and refuse containers which are emptied daily or more often as needed. Receiving areas, where approved for overnight storage of transport caging, are to be arranged in a neat and organized manner.
· Sanitizing i.e., removal of dirt and debris from various animal facility surfaces to include doors, walls, ceilings, sinks, covers of light fixtures, walk-in coolers, chest or upright refrigerators or freezers, waste troughs, cage washer base floor areas, floors, floor drains, etc. These surfaces and others to be swept, brushed, scrubbed, sponged, or vacuumed as directed by your supervisor. Sanitizing detergent or detergent - disinfectant solutions are to be applied as directed by your supervisor.
· Completing the General Daily Procedures in this manual and reviewing the information on disinfectants in the appendix so as to be able to properly select and utilize an appropriate sanitizing or disinfecting chemical.
· Assisting in maintaining the animal facilities free of vermin to include loose rodents and insects. Monitoring animal holding and support rooms to locate harborage, elimination procedures following review with the supervisor. Upon their completion and with the supervisor’s approval, monitor the certified pest control operator’s (PCO) application of approved chemical agents to eradicate vermin.
· Operating various washers and sterilizers in a safe and efficient manner to include preparing equipment for processing, loading equipment, cycle selection, monitoring the washer or sterilizer during operation, recording results of indicators, unloading equipment, etc.
· Completing routine maintenance of the washers and sterilizers to include cleaning interior and exterior surfaces, removing and rinsing debris from filters and traps, etc.
· Completing the Cage and Bottle Washer and Autoclave procedures in this manual.
Typical tasks are listed in Animal/Equipment Transportation procedures section of this manual.
Typical tasks include:
· Routing animals and items listed above by use of various flat bed trucks, two wheel carts, animal transport cages, tilt trucks, etc., in an efficient and safe manner so as to avoid collisions with doors, walls, caging, and equipment.
· Sanitizing the transport equipment and lubricating casters or other moving parts as needed.
· Disposal of soiled bedding, various containers, etc. at the appropriate disposal facility and in a manner that minimizes creation of dust or aerosols.
· Providing animal census counts.
· Identifying and maintaining animal identification.
· Monitoring and maintaining automated watering equipment.
· Completing an approved euthanasia procedure.
The policies listed below will be established and enforced pursuant to the provisions of bargaining unit contracts. The rules will be distributed to affected employees with an announced effective date following final review and approval by the Director of Research Animal Resources and following completion of the notification and discussion provisions with the union representatives as described in Article 29. The terms “staff” and “employees” shall refer to those individuals employed with in the Laboratory Animal attendant job classifications.
· Health and Safety - Staff will adhere at all times to health and safety rules including (see Occupational Health and Safety Section) no eating or drinking in the animal facilities outside of lunch rooms or offices; no laundering of university provided uniforms at home; adherence to personal hygiene standards; the need to report all work related injuries to the supervisor, etc.
· Fulfillment of Daily Animal Care Requirements During Emergency Closing of the University - Staff in this job classification are hereby notified that in accordance with university closing policy, they are considered “critical employees” and are expected to report, provided they are able to report, in the event of an emergency closing. Staff will be excused from this rule where individually contacted by a supervisor and notified that their services are not needed and that they are excused from reporting.
· Standard Full Time Day Shift - The full time work day shall consist of 8 hours which includes two paid 15 minute rest periods. Hours of work , starting times, ending times and rest periods are assigned by the supervisor. Morning and afternoon rest periods are selected from available break periods as predetermined by the Area Supervisor and selection is based on employee preference but are subject to change as needs arise which require adjustment of work schedules. Additionally, there is a 30- minute unpaid meal period which will be deducted from the time sheets.
· Reporting to Assigned Work Area - Staff will be provided a 15- minute period at the beginning of the shift to change into their uniform and report to their work location. Staff will be provided a 15 minute period at the end of the shift to change out of their uniform and shower. Students who work 4 hours or less do not get the paid 15 minutes at the beginning/end of the shift unless they work between 4-6 hours in which case they get one 15 minute period, and if they work more than 6 hours, they get the two 15 minute periods. If an employee chooses not to use that time, or all of that time, for a clothing change and shower, the employee must arrive, or remain, in the work area doing work as directed by the supervisor. Staff are expected to remain at their assigned work location throughout the shift except for rest periods, meal periods, or prior approved absences such as to attend a meeting with the supervisor. Absence from the assigned work area may be grounds for disciplinary action. Conversely, only employees who are on work time should be within RAR facilities. If you are not scheduled to work and you do not have other official business to conduct within RAR, then you may not be in the RAR work place. If you believe there are extenuating circumstances requiring you to access RAR facilities during a time when you are not working, you must first contact your direct supervisor or the weekend supervisor for permission. This policy is designed to protect both you and the security of the facilities.
· Chain of Command and Confidentiality- Animal care staff are to report their observations concerning the health of the animals under their care to the supervisor, veterinary technician, or to the veterinarian as outlined in the Animal Health Monitoring section. Staff are to report their observations concerning space availability for current populations and Requests for Animal Purchase to the supervisor. Staff are to report their observations on conditions that come to their attention e.g., the condition of the animal care equipment they are utilizing, the physical and environmental conditions in the animal rooms, to the supervisor. Staff are to contact individuals outside of the department or outside support departments e.g., investigators, Facilities Management, etc., to discuss matters pertaining to the animals and animal facilities, only at the request of their supervisor. Where the regular supervisor is absent or otherwise unavailable, staff are to contact an alternate supervisor as assigned or their Area Veterinarian. Staff are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding any information gathered or kept on employees as well as other related business information. Failure to maintain appropriate confidentiality may lead to disciplinary action.
· Professional Conduct - Staff are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and businesslike manner whenever they have contact with investigators, investigators’ staff, coworkers, supervisory staff, staff authorized to review or inspect the animal facilities, vendors, support staff, etc. Staff are expected to treat these parties and others with courtesy, tact and respect.
· Consideration for Coworkers, and Cooperative Approach to Teamwork- Staff are to carry out their individual assignments with a minimum of disruption to others. Additionally, staff are expected to cooperate with their coworkers regarding the use of common areas in the facility e.g., the corridors, receiving, cage and bottle washer rooms, feed and bedding storage rooms, etc. With respect to these areas, and shared equipment e.g., transport equipment, carts, cleaning equipment, etc., staff are expected to be accommodative of the needs of their coworkers; to provide assistance on a short term basis when requested e.g., five minutes or less, to help move a heavy item, hold a door open to facilitate moving equipment, stage delivery of soiled items to the central washer so as to keep the flow of equipment steady and smooth and so as to avoid periods where the washer room is either overwhelmed with equipment to sanitize or is idle for excessive periods.
· Profanity, Intimidation, Harassment, or Making Threats - Use of profanity in the workplace is prohibited and any attempt to intimidate, harass, or threaten coworkers, supervisory staff, visitors, or support staff, either physically or verbally, is strictly prohibited.
· Compliance with Supervisory Instructions - Willful failure to follow departmental policy, regulations, standard operating procedures, and directions from one’s supervisor is not permitted unless the employee has reason to believe the instructions and directions are illegal or will be a safety hazard to himself/herself or others. Such behavior may lead to disciplinary action.
· Notifications of Inability to Report for Regularly Scheduled Work and Requesting Sick Leave - Staff who are able to make personal notification via telephone, are required to personally notify the RAR Business Office @ 624-6169 prior to their scheduled start time or 8:00 am at the latest, in the event they are unable to report for regularly scheduled work. The employee shall indicate the general nature of the situation that is preventing them from reporting for work i.e., illness, injury, etc. to the office staff person they speak to or the answering machine. Notification is required for each day of absence unless informed otherwise by the supervisor. If the supervisor is not contacted directly by the employee after one day of absence, at the supervisors discretion, the supervisor may attempt to contact the employee directly, to further discuss with the employee the general nature of the illness if the employee is ill, or nature of the situation that has resulted in the employee’s non-reporting, so as to determine anticipated replacement staffing needs. If the staff member is unable to personally make notification, a friend, relative, etc., may make the notification, as outlined above, on behalf of the staff member. Failure to make notification of inability to report for work may lead to disciplinary action. Notification of inability to report in itself, shall not be considered as A) a request by the employee to utilized sick leave for the absence, or B) an approval by the supervisor for use of sick leave for the absence. A direct request for sick leave must be made by the employee who was absent, to that employee’s supervisor, as soon as possible after the onset of illness or in advance of an absence for other generally acceptable uses e.g., arranging care for an immediate member of the employee’s family, etc.
· Absences of three days or longer or chronic recurring absences – If these absences are for a serious health condition or if they meet the criteria as described by the university policy on FMLA http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/ohrpolicy/Leaves/FMLA/ the time the employee is a way from the job will be covered by the FMLA act.
· Maintenance of Current Address and Phone Number - Staff are required to maintain a current residential address and phone number in the Business Office. Staff may request that their address and phone number not be disclosed except for purposes of departmental business.
· Receiving and Making Personal Telephone Calls - Personal phone calls should be limited to rest or meal periods except on an emergency basis.
· Prohibited Substances and Prohibited Items - Staff may not consume or bring into the employer’s premises any drugs, alcohol, firearms or other materials which can cause harm or injury to others. Employees determined to be unable to perform their job responsibilities according to standards may be required to leave the workplace. An exception to the prohibition on the consumption of alcohol may occur where the department obtains a permit waiving the university prohibition on consumption for a specific event arranged by the department.
· Overtime - Overtime must be authorized in advance by the employee’s supervisor, an alternate or interim supervisor substituting for the regular supervisor, or by the individual at the next supervisory level. Compensatory time earned in lieu of overtime payment, may not be accrued above an 80- hour balance. A staff member’s compensatory time balance is calculated by multiplying overtime hours worked by time-and-one half.
· Vacation Request Procedure-See the vacation request http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/ohrpolicy/contents.htm policy as agreed upon by the union and RAR. If the request falls outside this policy, first choice of available vacation time will be determined by the current union contract requirements and by the supervisor’s determination of staffing requirements as to the number of employees that may be gone at one time.
· Resignation in Good Standing- To resign in good standing, an employee must provide the supervisor with a written notification of their intent to resign at least two weeks in advance of the last day of work. This requirement may be waived by the supervisor in the event of unusual or extraordinary circumstances. If not waived the employee will be so notified in writing by the supervisor that the resignation was not in good standing.
[Daily Check] [Animal Health] [Weaning/Separating Animals] [Dead Animals] [Repairs] [Watering] [Feeding] [Portable Cages] [Cage Changing] [Tranferring Animals] [Housekeeping] [Escapes] [Census] [Ordering Supplies] [Keys]
·
ABSOLUTELY NO DRINKING OR EATING IN ANIMAL ROOMS. 
Smoking is not allowed in University buildings, including parking garages.
· If you are ill or unable to come to work, it is necessary to call in to inform your supervisor that you will not be at work. The procedure is: in Minneapolis call the business office at 4-6169, in St. Paul call Craig Atkinson’s number at 5-5259. On weekends call the emergency supervisor pager.
· At the beginning of your workday turn on the lights in all animal rooms for which you are responsible. Check all rooms with automatic light timers and make sure timers are working correctly. Consult your supervisor as necessary. If an employee wishes to start work before their supervisor, it is the employee's responsibility to unlock the rooms, unless the employee's supervisor has identified a volunteer from the area team to do so. Likewise, at the end of the day, each employee has the responsibility to lock their animal rooms at the end of their work day, unless the supervisor has agreed to do so or has identified a volunteer to do so.
· Perform daily room procedures as indicated in this manual and in area-specific SOPs. Indicate completion of tasks on the daily checklist. Record other activities on the checklist as they are performed.
· Room Conditions: Check and record the following room conditions on your daily checklist
· Check the temperature of all assigned rooms daily and record on your room checklists and record minimum and maximum temperatures everyday.
· If room temperatures are outside of the normal range listed below, report this to your supervisor immediately. If outside of the critical range listed below also report this as a veterinary emergency (see Animal Health Reporting)
| Species |
Normal Temperature Range |
Critical Temperature Range |
| Rodents |
68-74 F |
65-80 F |
| Large Mammals |
68-74 F |
65-80 F |
| Rabbits |
65-70 F |
60-80 F |
| Rana frogs and newts |
68-74 F |
65-80 F |
| Xenopus frogs |
60-65 F |
under 60-70 F |
· Humidity is normally maintained at 30-70%. This is monitored by Facilities Management according to protocols established by the RAR Manager.
· Ventilation in most rooms is set at 10-15 air changes per hour. Room pressure is positive to the corridor for SPF, room pressures are negative in isolation and nonhuman primate rooms. Other rooms are maintained with pressure negative to the corridor. A subjective measure of ventilation is recorded on checklist daily by the EMPLOYEE (whether the room feels comfortable). Room pressure is monitored monthly by the Area Supervisor and ventilation rates are monitored by Facilities Management according to protocols established by the RAR Manager.
· Lighting is usually set at 12 hours light, 12 hours dark, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. except for rodent rooms in which breeding occurs (14L, 10D). This is re-set at Daylight Savings Time changes by the Area Supervisor. If any abnormalities in the light cycle are noticed, report them to your supervisor.
1. Animal Health
Briefly check all nonrodent animals individually and rodent cages in each room
the first thing each morning. Report animal health problems as outlined under
Animal Health Monitoring. Medication is administered under the supervision of
the veterinary staff. Special instructions, such as isolation of the animal,
repeat medication, or close observation will be given by the veterinary staff
as needed. Animal care staff may be asked to administer simple medications occasionally.
Deal with dead animals as indicated below.
· Check to be certain cage size requirements are being met (see individual animal sections, or the Guide for Care and Use of Laboratory Animals for cage size requirements). If cages are overcrowded it is necessary to move animals to new cages. Contact the investigator or your supervisor before doing this.
· If cages are overcrowded because litters need to be separated, contact the investigator and ask them to separate the animals within a specified amount of time. Advise them that if it is not done by that time you will do so and they will be charged for your time.
· When it is time to wean the animal (see "Small Rodents" section for details), contact the investigator as described above. If needed, separate litters by sex and complete a cage card for each new box. Bill your time in 15 minute increments on the special service sheets.
· New cage cards can be written from the one on the cage you are removing the mice from. If blank cards are unavailable, a cage card may be handwritten with the following information: PI’s name, Protocol number, RAP number, date of arrival, contact name, contact number, animal id, number of animals, date of birth or reason for seperation from the other animals. Contact the business office or your supervisor if barcoded cage cards are needed.
· Remove animal from the cage, put into a plastic liner (double-bag large animals), and attach a dead tag.
· Write on the animal's cage card the date it was found dead and its ID number if it was group housed and you know which one it is. Preferably, leave the card on the cage so the investigator will know what is going on. Sometimes it helps to indicate on the card which cooler the animal was taken to also.
· Fill out the dead tag with the appropriate information and attach to the bag the animal is in: Investigator's name, department, protocol number and phone number; the date and room number; the species and ID number (or other pertinent identifying information); your name or initials.
· Take the animal to the correct carcass cooler for the area.
· Attempt to notify the investigator as soon as you find the dead animal. Usually on weekends, this will not be possible. If you cannot notify the investigator, inform your supervisor. The investigator will inform you if they want the carcass saved or discarded. We only save them for 48 hours, unless your supervisor informs you that other arrangements have been made.
· In St. Paul, always write dead animal information in the “PD” book nearest to the area where the animal died.
· Do not throw out a carcass until you have received instructions from the investigator, (or until 48 hours after instructed to save it).
· If the animals are to be submitted to necropsy, they must be labeled and taken to the necropsy cooler in PWB or to the Veterinary Science cooler in St. Paul, the cooler in ASVM, the 419 cooler or directly to the St. Paul Diagnostic laboratory. Carcasses to be saved should be placed on the shelf in the Veterinary Science cooler, carcasses for disposal can be placed directly in the cans provided. All carcasses should be initially saved until the PI can be contacted.
· In Minneapolis, any carcass over 50 pounds must be cut up for disposal. The PI should be contacted to do this task.
· Horses, cattle and large pigs that die should be taken to the St. Paul Diagnostic lab by truck for disposal. Other large animals such as adult turkeys, goats and small pigs can be taken in wheeled carts as long as it is possible for two people to lift them in and out safely. When transporting any large animal the following guidelines must be adhered to:
· Carcasses must be covered in such a way as to not reveal that animal corpses are being transported. This means all body parts must be covered (including feet and legs) so that the contents of what is being transported is not apparent to bystanders.
· Carcasses must be contained in such a way as not to allow spillage of bodily fluids onto the roadway.
· Carcasses must be properly secured to the transport vehicle so they cannot fall off, spill, or body parts dragged in the roadway.
· Should incidents of carcass leakage/spillage occur on the route of transport, it is the liability of the persons transporting carcasses to properly clean and disinfect the area.
4. Items
in need of repair or replacement
Anything unusual or abnormal seen in the animal room or within the animal facility,
such as dripping faucets, temperature and/or ventilation variations, broken
doors, malfunctioning equipment, etc., are to be reported to your supervisor.
· Rodents and rabbits are to have access to water at all times, unless your supervisor or the veterinary staff instructs otherwise.
· Large animals (dogs, cats and anything larger) are to be given water daily, unless your supervisor or the veterinary staff instructs otherwise. The water is to be checked later in the day and refilled if empty.
· Check all water bottles and replace those with soiled water or less than ½ full. Return the bottle to the same cage.
· Check automatic watering system to be sure it is functioning properly according to the following procedures.
· Daily Routines
· Safety check - first thing in morning, last thing at night.
· Check for leaks - pull rack out and observe from rear. Fix or report problems
· Be sure nipple protrudes into cage.
· If a cage lid is not on properly, this may be a cause of malfunction
· Check position of cage (i.e., must be slid on straight, flush to rear, and properly engaged)
· Be sure animals are getting water. This requires a careful assessment
· Does water readily flow when the valve is pushed?
· Is the animal eating?
· Is the animal producing urine and feces?
· Cleaning of automatic watering systems
· Check water lines and filters as instructed by your supervisor. Replace any filters monthly
· The entire system should be flushed at least weekly or as instructed by your supervisor
· Mice less than 6 weeks of age, females with litters and newly arrived anima