Insects and animals in the workplace

Scope

Employees who work in all industries have the potential to interact with insects and animals in the workplace. Employees who work outside, such as groundskeepers, security guards, construction workers, and HVAC technicians, run the risk of encountering insects and animals on the daily basis. Other employees may encounter vermin in the parking lot, offices, and in the less traveled locations within the facility.

Regulatory citations

• 29 CFR 1910.141 — Sanitation.
• 29 CFR 1910.151 — Medical services and first aid
• 29 CFR 1926.21 — Safety training and education
• 29 CFR 1926.51 — Sanitation
• 29 CFR 1926.50 — Medical services and first aid

Key definitions

• Vermin – insects, spiders, wild animals, and other nuisance creatures that can destroy property or inflict harm

Summary of requirements

General requirements

• Keep enclosed workplaces free from vermin, including insects, spiders, and animals.
• Utilize a vermin control plan wherever practical.
• Train employees to recognize the hazards associated with working around insects and animals as well as emergency procedures to follow.
• Watch where hands and feet are located when removing debris. If possible, don’t place fingers under debris you are moving. Wear heavy gloves.
• Provide first aid training for employees.
• Keep work areas free and clear of debris to help prevent

Animals

• Do not handle dead or live animals. They can spread diseases such as Rat Bite Fever and Rabies.
• Train employees on recognizing situations in which wild animals and rodents can harbor or be found.
• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals, especially disease carrying animals such as rats.
• Get medical attention if bitten/scratched by a wild animal or rodent.
• Allow snakes to proceed if one crosses into the work area or path.
• Watch for snakes and wild animals sunning on fallen trees, limbs, or other debris.
• Wear tall boots when working outside or in confined locations like a crawl space or pit.

Insects

• Provide protection from biting and stinging insects, wear long pants, socks, and long-sleeved shirts.
• Seal clothing at the wrists and ankles prevents insects from entering under clothing.
• Avoid scented products such as colognes, perfumes, and scented soaps, shampoos, and deodorants.
• Use insect repellents that contain DEET or Picaridin.
• Recognize insect bites may cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis (with symptoms such as chest pain, nausea, sweating, loss of breath, serious swelling, or slurred speech) and require immediate medical treatment.
• Seal clothing at the wrists and ankles to prevent insects from entering under clothing.
• Avoid scented products such as colognes, perfumes, and scented soaps, shampoos, and deodorants.
• Wear clean clothing and practice good hygiene.
• Remain calm and still if a single stinging insect is flying around. Note that swatting at an insect can lead to stings and it may release a pheromone that attracts additional insects.
• Leave the area as quickly as possible if you are attacked by several stinging insects at once.
• Carry an epinephrine auto injector if the employee is allergic to certain insects and ask that they wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace stating their allergy.