Body
Title
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Standard Operating Procedure for Use of Antibiotics in Animals
EHS SOP #: 015
Version No.: 1.0
Supercedes: N/A
Introduction
Purpose
This document establishes procedures for the safe handling and use of antibiotics in University Division of Comparative Medicine (DCM) facilities and research laboratories. Common antibiotics include doxycycline, neomycin, ampicillin, tetracycline, bleomycin, and rapamycin. Some classes of antibiotics are known or suspected reproductive toxins including quinolones, tetracyclines, sulfonamides, and macrolides. Pregnant individuals should consult their primary care physician before handling.
Scope
This Standard Operating Procedure applies to all research staff and DCM employees when working with these c agents in DCM facilities.
Standard Operating Procedure
Requirements
1. Administrative Controls
- The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) “Use of Chemical Hazards in Animals” form is not required for submission for use of the antibiotics listed in this SOP.
- Anyone who handles antibiotics or works with animals to administer these agents are required to review this SOP and the attached Safety Data Sheet (SDS) prior to work.
- Antibiotic use in animals must follow the Division of Comparative Medicine (DCM) SOP - Handling Cages Dosed with Chemical Hazards.
2. Engineering Controls
- Procedures that involve handling and dissolving solid forms of antibiotics must be conducted under exhaust ventilation in a chemical fume hood or ducted Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC).
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- For handling, dissolving, or preparing mixtures of antibiotics, nitrile gloves, a lab coat, and safety glasses are required.
- When in DCM facilities, PPE use must be consistent with facility policy.
4. Waste Disposal
- Unused solutions and contaminated solid waste will be disposed of as hazardous material through EHS.
- Excess water and excess or expired feed treated with the agent should be collected and disposed of as hazardous material through EHS.
5. Accidents or Injuries
- Animal bites do not pose any increased risk. As per standard policy, report to supervisor.
- If an antibiotic solution or material is splashed on an individual or in eyes flush for 15 minutes with copious quantities of water and contact the University Employee Occupational Health Clinic (919-966-9119).
6. Spill Procedures
- Do not attempt to clean-up if you feel unsure of your ability to do so or if you perceive the risk to be greater than normal laboratory operations.
- If a small spill occurs, absorb with absorbent pads. Double bag contaminated solid waste and submit as a hazardous material through EHS.
- If a large spill occurs notify others in the area and evacuate room immediately. Contact EHS (919-962-5507) during working hours and 911 if after hours.
Contact Information
Primary Contact
Office: Environment, Health & Safety
Address: 1120 Estes Drive, Campus Box #1650, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-1650
Phone: 919-962-5507