Following safety procedures should include

• using required PPE
• summarizing laboratory policies and procedures including specimen labeling, chain of custody, and contamination control
• explaining the relationship between lab safety and lab organization
• adhering to safety regulations and laboratory organization standards
• handling chemicals, equipment, and sharps according to established protocols
• locating, interpreting, and adhering to SDS for all laboratory materials.

Teacher Resources:

• "Youth@Work-Talking Safety Curriculum for Virginia," NIOSH, CDC
• Veterinary Worker Safety and Health, NIOSH, CDC
• Compendium of Veterinary Standard Precautions for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Veterinary Personnel, 2015, VICC, NASPHV

Process/Skill Questions:

• How can veterinary workers be harmed by laboratory equipment?
• What types of veterinary laboratory equipment may not be used by a person under 18? Why are age restrictions necessary regarding the use of laboratory equipment?
• What should a veterinary assistant do if there is hazardous material in the facility’s inventory but there is no SDS for it?
• Where should the SDS be located?