Hazardous Biological Sampling

biological sampling

Hazardous Chemical Agent Regulation, 2021Hazardous Chemical Substances refers to any toxic, harmful, corrosive, irritant of asphyxiant substance or, a mixture of substances, that may produce adverse health effects in individuals when exposed to sufficient quantities.

 

Hazardous biological agents, as defined under the Regulations for Hazardous Biological Agents, OHSAct (85 of 1993), means any micro-organism, cell culture or human endoparasite, including any which have been genetically modified, which may cause an infection, allergy or toxicity, or otherwise, create a hazard to human health.

All work areas fall at risk to expose employees to Hazardous Biological Agents, some obviously more than others!

Here are some typical industries that have an increased risk of being a source of exposure:

      • Hospitals
      • Food Processing industries
      • Food preparation areas
      • Abattoirs
      • Medical Research
      • Laboratories
      • Pharmaceutical Companies
      • Sewage treatment plants
      • Farming
      • Veterinary Hospitals and Clinics

Compliance Requirements:

      • Occupational Health, and Safety Act, Act No. 85 of 1993

Sampling Methodology:

      • Occupational Health, and Safety Act, Act No. 85 of 1993 (in accordance with 6 (1) of the Hazardous Chemical Agent Regulation, 2021)
      • NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (NMAM)
      • NIOSH Occupational Exposure Sampling Strategy Manual (OESSM)

Legal References:

      • Occupational Health and Safety Act, Act No 85 of 1993
      • Hazardous Chemical Agent Regulation, 2021
      • NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (NMAM)
      • NIOSH Occupational Exposure Sampling Strategy Manual (OESSM)
      • Most exposed occupations may include those in food production, agriculture, farming, hospitals and laboratories, the municipality (refuse and sewage workers) and office buildings from wallpapers, carpets, damp buildings and ventilation systems.