|
Label
 |
Safety
|
Safe and proper use of disinfectants is critical and cannot be overemphasized. Disinfectants are potent, professional-strength solutions that can be very dangerous or hazardous if used in ways not delineated in the manufacturer’s instructions. Many disinfectants, especially in their concentrated form, are poisonous if swallowed and they can cause severe damage to the eyes and skin.
|
The avicultural microbiologist professional must always remember to use caution when using and/or mixing disinfecting solutions. It is important that you always wear gloves when working with these highly toxic solutions to protect your hands from potential damage. Also, be sure to label all disinfectant products to insure that you know what you are using and never use solutions that have not been labeled (see Figure 2). Be sure to keep all disinfectants and other potentially hazardous solutions and products far out of the reach of children and birds including other pets.
|
Figure 2. Always Label Disinfecting Solutions Properly
DANGER!!
PHENOLS!!
This container holds a phenol disinfecting solution that may be harmful or deadly if swallowed. All containers should be properly labeled. Never use any solution in an unlabelled container.
|
When removing tools and implements from a disinfecting solution, use tongs or a draining basket and make sure the utensils are dry before using them. Do NOT pour alcohol, phenols, quats or any type of disinfecting solution directly on your hands. Direct contact with disinfectants, as mentioned above, can cause serious irritation or disease of the skin. If, by accident, you do come in direct contact with these solutions, immediately wash your hands with an antiseptic soap and rinse and dry them thoroughly. Regarding soap used in the aviary, you should never use bar soap. Bar soap can actually act as a breeding ground for bacteria. Pump-style liquid antiseptic soap is a far more sanitary alternative.
|
When mixing disinfecting solutions, do so carefully, taking extra care to properly measure all products to make sure that they work at their highest level of efficiency.
|
Disinfection of Other Surfaces
|
As we have discussed, it is very important for the aviculutural microbiologist professional to properly clean and disinfect all tools and implements that they use. But to ensure that the spread of bacteria is efficiently controlled. Many other surfaces must be considered, since any surface may become contaminated and able to spread disease. Tables and countertops immediately come to mind when considering these other surfaces, but there are several other surfaces to think about. Wall ornaments, telephone receivers, cabinet handles, doorknobs and even keyboards may harbor bacteria and should be sanitized on a regular basis. A rule of thumb for the avicultural microbiologist professional to remember is that any surface that is touched by clients or staff members can become contaminated and must be sanitized regularly.
|
|