The aviculturist needs to list all the chemicals that are used. Probably the easiest way to do this is to make a list of all materials that come with a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Using the template shown in Figure 1.
Aviculturists can easily transfer the information from the MSDS in an easy to read format which will alert you to the hazards associated with these chemicals as well as precautionary measures or protective equipment appropriate for each toxin.
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Once the Chemical Inventory has been compiled, it should be distributed to all workers as a means of providing information to all employees. If the aviculturist, however, chooses to have only one copy of the Chemical Inventory, it should be made available to all aviary staff and kept in an easily accessible location. It is important that the aviculturist train all employees on the uses of the chemical inventory sheet and the terminology used on it.
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Chemical Hazard Categories
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When creating a Chemical Inventory, materials should be organized into four main categories:
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Flammables.
These are substances that catch fire or burn easily and may include alcohol and acetone.
Corrosives.
These are substances that can cause injury to the skin, eyes and respiratory system. Phenols and certain other types of disinfectants may be corrosive.
Toxics.
These are materials that can be poisonous. Any chemical may have toxic effects. The level of toxicity depends on the amount, length and frequency of exposure. Acrylics and epoxies may fall into this category.
Reactives
These substances react violently when mixed with other materials and may include peroxide.
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Using these chemical hazard categories can make it easier for aviculture microbiologists and staff alike to remember the hazards and precautions for each type of hazardous material.
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Types of Hazards
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As shown in the template in Figure 1. ,
Aviculture microbiologist professionals need to know how to protect themselves from two types of hazards. These are health hazards and physical hazards.
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Health hazards are those that cause immediate or long-term damage to the body from exposure to hazardous materials. Health hazards may be short-term and cause only skin irritation, headaches or dizziness, or they may be long-term and cause cancer or other fatal illnesses. Aviculturists should remember that exposure to any chemical material could cause health difficulties if overexposure to the chemical occurs.
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