BIOSECURITY

Categories of biological risk factors 

Biological risk factors include microorganisms, cell cultures, biologically active substances, and other factors that may cause infectious diseases, allergies, or poisoning. 

Based on the microorganism's ability to cause diseases in humans and/or animals and to transmit from one individual to another, pathogens are grouped into four categories: 

1. Group 1: Organisms that do not produce notifiable disease in humans and/or animals.
2. Group 2: Organisms that may cause diseases in humans and/or animals and therefore pose a health risk to humans/animals but do not present an infection risk to the human/animal populations. Effective prevention and treatment methods are available.
3. Group 3: Organisms that may cause severe diseases in humans and/or animals, posing a serious threat to human and/or animal health. They may present an infection risk to the human/animal populations, but effective prevention and treatment methods are available.
4. Group 4: Organisms that cause severe diseases in humans and/or animals, posing a serious threat to human/animal health. They may present an infection risk to the human/animal populations, and no effective prevention or treatment methods are available. 

Routes of infection transmission 

A pathogen requires a source of infection, a susceptible host, and a transmission mechanism or pathway between them to spread.  

The spread of a pathogen depends on its stability, virulence, infectivity, route of excretion from the infected host, and mechanism of transmission. Some pathogens primarily spread through a single pathway, while others utilize multiple routes. Major pathways of infection transmission are as follows: 

Contact transmission 

• Direct contact: A susceptible animal/human becomes infected through direct contact with an infected animal/human, resulting in the pathogen being transferred to the susceptible organism, e.g., through blood or saliva via open wounds, mucous membranes, or skin contact (e.g., biting, fighting, nose-to-nose contact). Direct contact also includes droplet transmission and aerosol transmission over short distances. Droplets/aerosols are formed when an infected animal coughs, sneezes, or snorts. The pathogen is expelled into the air in droplets and can reach the nasal, oral, or ocular mucosa or wounds of a susceptible animal.
• Indirect contact: A susceptible animal/human becomes infected through the environment, fomites, or an intermediary contaminated with the pathogen. 

Fomites refer to inanimate objects (e.g., shoes, clothing, feed), equipment, etc., that transfer the pathogen from one susceptible animal to another. Vehicles (e.g., cars, trucks) can also spread pathogens. 

• Airborne transmission 

Infectious particles are transmitted from one animal/human to another through the air (aerosols) and inhaled. This route primarily spreads respiratory infections whose pathogens can remain airborne for extended periods of time and be carried long distances by air currents (e.g., from one building to another via ventilation systems). 

• Vector transmission 

Pathogens are transmitted from one animal/human to another via arthropods (e.g., mosquitoes, fleas, ticks) or other biological carriers (e.g., rodents). 

Mechanical vectors can pick up infectious agents on the outside of their bodies and transmit them through physical contact. The pathogen does not multiply in the vector but is transported from an infected individual to a susceptible individual via the vector’s mouthparts during biting/stinging (e.g., horseflies transmitting blood pathogens) or by the vector’s body or digestive tract (e.g., bacteria on flies consumed by a susceptible individual). In the case of biological transmission, the pathogen multiplies and develops within the vector before being transmitted to a susceptible individual via the vector’s bite or sting. 

Susceptibility of the host organism 

The susceptibility of a host to disease-causing or pathogenic microorganisms can vary greatly. Some hosts are immune to infection or capable of eliminating the pathogen, while others may become asymptomatic carriers or develop clinical disease. 

The characteristics of the host organism, such as age, comorbidities, immunosuppression, pregnancy, or deficiencies in the body's first line of defense mechanisms (e.g., skin, cough reflex, low stomach pH), can increase susceptibility to more severe disease upon infection. Vaccination or prior exposure to the pathogen can reduce susceptibility to infection. 

Drug resistance 

An antimicrobial agent is a natural, semi-synthetic, or synthetic substance that kills microbes or inhibits their growth. 

Since the introduction of antimicrobial agents, the misuse or overuse of these substances has been a significant issue, leading to the development of resistance in microbes to antimicrobial drugs, known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This refers to the ability of a microbe to withstand the effects of an antimicrobial agent. 

Microbes may naturally be resistant to certain antimicrobial agents. However, acquired resistance is problematic. It occurs when previously sensitive strains of microbes develop the ability to withstand the effects of an antimicrobial drug due to genetic changes. Resistant microbes are not affected by the action of antimicrobial agents, survive, and continue to reproduce, potentially causing disease or even death. 

Microbes that have become resistant to multiple antimicrobials, commonly used to treat infections they cause, are called multidrug-resistant. Examples include methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP), as well as certain strains of Salmonella enterica. 

To reduce the emergence and spread of drug resistance, it is crucial to use antimicrobial agents responsibly and to limit or restrict their use. Researchers at EMÜ have developed guidelines specific to Estonia's conditions titled "Guidelines for the Use of Antibiotics in Farm Animals"link opens in new page (EMÜ 2020). 

EMPLOYEE AND STUDENT HEALTH 

Health insurance 

The Estonian health care system is based on unified health insurance that makes it possible to provide same quality medical care to all insured people. Employees of the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) and students with permanent or long-term residence rights are entitled to health insurance. Information about health insurance is available on the Health Insurance Fund’s websitelink opens in new page. 

Accident and civil liability insurance during practical training 

The Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (VLI) has an accident insurance policy that applies during practical training both at the university and at external institutions specified in the contract. This insurance contract does not cover accidents occurring during travel to or from the educational institution or the training location. The insurance policy is valid worldwide, but medical expenses are reimbursed only in Estonia. 
If practical training takes place abroad, students must obtain travel insurance to cover medical expenses related to unexpected health issues. 
A civil liability insurance contract is also concluded between students and the insurer, covering damages caused by students in the course of their professional practical training (e.g., improper use of equipment, incorrect treatment, etc.) to third parties. Civil liability insurance covers personal injury and property damage caused to third parties within the limits prescribed by law but does not cover additional contractual obligations or damage to oneself. 

Instructions in case of an accident 

In the event of an accident, the student must: 

• Notify the insurance company and the university by email ([email protected] ). Detailed information on how to report the accident will be provided to the student. 

In cases involving liability issues, the student must: 

• Notify the insurance company and the university by email ([email protected]). Detailed information on how to report the incident will be provided to the student. 

In the event of an accident occurring in the learning process at the EMÜ VLI, the “Accident Reporting and Investigation Procedures” shall be followed. 

Employee vaccination 

Employee vaccination at EMÜ is regulated by the "Occupational Health and Safety Procedurelink opens in new page." Vaccination is organized for employees when the employer cannot eliminate biological hazards to health in the work environment. Vaccination is provided to employees exposed to biological hazards at work for which effective vaccines exist. Vaccination against tetanus, rabies, tick-borne encephalitis, and diphtheria is strongly recommended. 
Vaccination expenses for employees are covered by the university's human resources department. Unit heads inform employees via email, providing them with a registration link for vaccination institutions. The vaccination institution sends a list of vaccinated individuals to the university's occupational health specialist. 

 
Employees can seek vaccination advice from their family doctor or Tartu University Hospital: https://www.kliinikum.ee/patsiendile/ennetus/vaktsineerimine/link opens in new page. 

Specific health-related issues concerning employees and students 

Employees, students, and clients with immunodeficiency are at greater risk of contracting zoonotic diseases. Immunodeficiency may lead to more severe complications and can result from medical conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asplenia, pregnancy, certain cancers), treatments (e.g., steroid therapy, chemotherapy, immunosuppressants, radiation), or congenital conditions. 
Immunocompromised individuals and their supervisors must be aware of potential exposure to zoonotic pathogens at the workplace, including: 

• Handling laboratory samples.
• Direct care of high-risk animals, such as:
• Young animals (e.g., ruminants before weaning, dogs, and cats under six months old).
• Animals with diarrhoea.
• Animals during parturition.
• Stray or wild animals, especially carnivores feeding on rodents or other wildlife.
• Animals fed raw meat.
• Reptiles or imported exotic species.
• Animals housed in crowded conditions (e.g., shelters).
• Animals with untreated internal or external parasites. 

Reducing the risk of zoonotic pathogen exposure at the workplace involves implementing proper infection control measures. Veterinarians should share information and assist with diagnosing zoonotic diseases, as medical practitioners in human medicine may have limited awareness of such risks. 

During pregnancy, women experience suppressed cell-mediated immunity, increasing susceptibility to certain infections, such as toxoplasmosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, brucellosis, listeriosis, Q fever, leptospirosis, and Chlamydophila psittaci (psittacosis). Vertical transmission (mother to fetus) of some zoonoses can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, or congenital anomalies. Measures to reduce infection risk depend on individual circumstances but generally include: 

• Avoiding tasks involving contact with animal bodily fluids (e.g., obstetrics).
• Avoiding contact with young cats, cat faeces, and raw meat to minimize the risk of toxoplasmosis. 

Pregnant employees or students with immune system disorders must inform their clinic manager, supervisor, or lecturer about their condition so that the university can ensure appropriate protection. To reduce infection risks, control measures and personal protective equipment must be used. In cases of zoonotic disease risks, consultation with the employer's healthcare provider (with consent) or specialists in infection control, public health, or occupational health may be recommended.  

Confidentiality must be maintained. 

NOTIFIABLE AND REPORTABLE ANIMAL DISEASES 

The European Union Animal Health Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council) divides animal diseases listed in the regulation into five categories: 

• Category A diseases – diseases not typically present in the European Union, requiring immediate eradication measures upon detection (e.g., foot-and-mouth disease, African swine fever, classical swine fever). In Estonian legislation these are referred to as especially dangerous animal diseases.
• Category B diseases – diseases that must be controlled across all member states with the aim of eradication throughout the European Union (e.g., rabies, brucellosis).
• Category C diseases – diseases relevant to specific member states and that require measures to prevent their spread to EU regions officially declared disease-free or implementing eradication programs for the particular disease (e.g., bluetongue, Aujeszky’s disease).
• Category D diseases – diseases requiring measures to prevent their spread during importation into the EU or movement between member states (e.g., bovine genital campylobacteriosis, anthrax).
• Category E diseases – diseases that require monitoring under the EU Animal Health Regulation (e.g., paratuberculosis, Q fever). 

Especially dangerous animal diseases 

• Foot-and-mouth disease
• Classical swine fever
• African swine fever
• Highly pathogenic avian influenza
• African horse sickness 

Notifiable animal diseases 

(As listed in Annex II of the EU Animal Health Regulation) 

• Infection with rinderpest virus
• Infection with Rift Valley fever virus
• Infection with Brucella abortus, B. melitensis, and B. suis
• Infection caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (M. bovis, M. caprae, M. tuberculosis)
• Infection with rabies virus
• Infection with bluetongue virus (serotypes 1–24)
• Infestation with Echinococcus multilocularis
• Infection with epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus
• Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)
• Surra (Trypanosoma evansi)
• Ebola virus disease
• Paratuberculosis
• Japanese encephalitis
• West Nile fever
• Q fever
• Infection with lumpy skin disease virus
• Infection with Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides SC (contagious bovine pleuropneumonia)
• Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis/infectious pustular vulvovaginitis
• Bovine viral diarrhea
• Bovine genital campylobacteriosis
• Trichomonosis
• Enzootic bovine leukosis
• Sheep and goat pox
• Infection with peste des petits ruminants virus
• Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia
• Epididymitis in rams (Brucella ovis)
• Infection with Burkholderia mallei (glanders)
• Infection with equine arteritis virus
• Equine infectious anemia
• Anthrax
• Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis
• Contagious equine metritis
• Eastern and Western equine encephalomyelitis
• Infection with Aujeszky’s disease virus
• Infection with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus
• Infection with Newcastle disease virus
• Avian mycoplasmosis (Mycoplasma gallisepticum and M. meleagridis)
• Infection with Salmonella pullorum, S. gallinarum, and S. arizonae
• Infection with low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses
• Avian chlamydiosis
• Infestation with Varroa spp. (varroosis)
• Infestation with Aethina tumida (small hive beetle)
• American foulbrood
• Infestation with Tropilaelaps spp.
• Infection with Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans
• Epizootic haematopoietic necrosis
• Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia
• Infectious haematopoietic necrosis
• Infection with highly polymorphic region-deleted infectious salmon anaemia virus (HPR-deleted ISAV)
• Infection with koi herpesvirus
• Infection with Mikrocytos mackini
• Infection with Perkinsus marinus
• Infection with Bonamia ostreae
• Infection with Bonamia exitiosa
• Infection with Marteilia refringens
• Infection with Taura syndrome virus
• Infection with yellowhead disease virus
• Infection with white spot syndrome virus 

In cases of suspected disease, samples must be sent to the National Center for Laboratory Research and Risk Assessment (LABRIS) at F. R. Kreutzwaldi 30, 51006 Tartu. LABRIS websitelink opens in new page 
Infectious disease hotline: +372 506 6687 

ANIMAL BY-PRODUCTS¹ 

The following guidelines for handling animal by-products are mandatory for all departments and units of the Estonian University of Life Sciences where animal by-products are collected, used, or stored for educational or research purposes. 

Animal by-products (referred to as 'material' in the context of this manual) are entire animal bodies, parts of animals, animal products, or other products of animal origin not intended for human consumption, including ova, embryos, and semen. Animal by-products are classified into three categories (1, 2 and 3) based on the level of health risk to humans and animals. 

User -- an individual who uses animal by-products and products derived from them for special feeding purposes, research, or other specific purposes. 

Work stages: 

1. Material is collected, stored, and used under conditions that prevent health risks to humans and animals. Precautionary measures appropriate to the material's risk level are applied.

2. Material used in teaching and research originates from:

   2. 1 An approved slaughterhouse, meat processing plant, or registered animal-keeping facility;

   2.2 Companion animals, zoo animals, or wild animals. 
    

The owner/sender provides information about the material. 

3. For transportation of materials, sealed, waterproof, easily cleanable and disinfectable boxes/containers are used. All are cleaned, washed, and disinfected after use.
4. Material is stored in a separate refrigerator.
5. Stored material is packaged and labelled (animal species, material description, origin, date of receipt) for identification.
6. Documentation related to the material is retained, and records are maintained for acquired material.
7. After use, the material is sent for disposal to an approved animal by-products processing facility. Exceptionally, animal by-products or products derived from them may be autoclaved and then disposed of in accordance with environmental requirements. 

Hand hygiene 

In laboratories and rooms where there is contact with biological materials or animals, the following must be provided: 

• A sink with running water,
• A liquid soap dispenser,
• Paper towels, and
• A hand antiseptic solution. 

Hand hygiene is the most important measure to prevent the spread of infections. 
Proper hand hygiene reduces the transfer of microorganisms via hands. Hand hygiene involves handwashing, hand antisepsis, and the care of hand skin and nails. 

Wearing gloves does not replace hand hygiene. Hands must be washed with warm water and soap. The purpose of hygienic handwashing is the mechanical removal of dirt, microorganisms, and spores. Hands should be washed in the direction from fingertips to wrists. 

Handwashing instructions: 

• Wet hands and wrists thoroughly under running warm water.
• Dispense enough soap to cover the entire surface of the hands.
• Rub palms together.
• Rub the back of the left hand with the right hand and vice versa.
• Rub palms together with fingers interlaced.
• Rub the back of fingers against the opposite palm, keeping fingers interlocked.
• Rub the left thumb in a circular motion in the right palm and vice versa.
• Rub the fingertips in a circular motion in the opposite palm and vice versa.
• Rinse hands thoroughly under running water.
• Gently dry hands with a single-use paper towel, patting from fingertips to wrists/elbows until completely dry. 

Recommended duration for the handwashing procedure is 40–60 seconds. 

Hand antisepsis involves treating hands with an antiseptic to reduce the number of microbes. Perform thorough hand antisepsis after washing or when hands are not visibly soiled. 

Hand antisepsis instructions: 

• Dispense approximately 3 ml of antiseptic into the palm and spread over both hands.
• Rub palms together.
• Rub the back of the left hand with the right hand and vice versa.
• Rub palms together with fingers interlaced.
• Rub the back of fingers against the opposite palm, keeping fingers interlocked.
• Rub the left thumb in a circular motion in the right palm and vice versa.
• Rub the fingertips in a circular motion in the opposite palm and vice versa.
• Rub hands until they are dry. 

The entire hand antisepsis procedure should take 20–30 seconds (Appendix II) 

Factors influencing hand hygiene effectiveness: 

• Skin condition: Healthy, unbroken skin is a natural protective barrier. It is easier to clean healthy, intact skin than damaged (cracks, cuts, abrasions) or inflamed skin. Cover all skin injuries on hands with waterproof bandages and change them as needed.  

Use appropriate handwashing products and moisturizing hand cream to avoid irritation or sensitivity. 

• Fingernails: Most microorganisms reside under the nails, followed by the palms, interdigital spaces and backs of the hands. Keep nails short to facilitate cleaning and prevent glove damage.  

Staff members and students handling animals or biological/clinical materials must not wear nail extensions, artificial nails, or other cosmetic coverings. Nail polish is prohibited due to the difficulty of eliminating microorganisms from cracks and edges. Artificial nails are more likely to harbour microorganisms. 

• Jewelry: Remove all jewelry before starting work. Jewelry is difficult to clean and acts as a physical barrier that impedes the mechanical removal of microorganisms during handwashing and reduces the effectiveness of antiseptic agents. 

Wash hands and/or perform hand antiseptic (if hands are not visibly soiled, hand antisepsis alone is sufficient): 

• After contact with animals, animal blood, bodily fluids, secretions, or excretions (even when wearing gloves);
• After handling laboratory samples;
• After touching potentially contaminated objects;
• After cleaning equipment, cages, or enclosures;
• Before and after handling each patient;
• After removing gloves, etc. 

• Outerwear (e.g., jackets, coats) is not allowed inside the EMÜ animal clinic, dissection rooms, teaching or research laboratories. These must be left in designated areas (locker, coat rack).
• In situations where there is contact with animals or biological material derived from animals, such as during work or practical training in farms, animal clinics, and laboratories, appropriate work clothing, protective clothing if necessary, footwear, and personal protective equipment must be worn.
• Work clothing must be clean and should be changed as soon as possible if visibly soiled or if it has come into contact with blood, other bodily fluids, or other potentially high-risk (infectious) material.
• Work clothing must not be worn outside work areas to prevent the possible spread of pathogens from the animal clinic or laboratory to public spaces and homes.
• Replacement footwear is required in the animal clinic and laboratory. Replacement footwear (work shoes) should preferably have thick soles, closed toes, and be made of water-resistant and easy-to-clean material.

      Footwear must be changed:

• When entering the clean zone of the animal clinic (e.g., operating block, clean procedure rooms, etc.);
• When going on farm visits (rubber boots);
• When entering high-risk (infectious) areas to prevent the spread of infection to other rooms (replacement footwear or protective/disposable overshoes).
• For washing work clothing, an external service provider with appropriate expertise and technology should be used, or clothing should be washed on-site using an appropriate washing cycle and detergent.
• Staff and students must be informed that taking work clothing home for washing poses a risk of carrying pathogens. If work clothing is taken home, it should be stored in a plastic bag until washed, washed separately from other laundry, and at a temperature of at least 70°C.

• Hands must be washed after handling dirty laundry.

  Work clothing and footwear:

• Laboratory: Lab coat, replacement footwear if necessary, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Animal clinic: Medical work clothing and replacement footwear; protective clothing and PPE if necessary.
• Operating room: Special clothing not worn during other procedures, head covering, and mask. The surgeon and assistant wear a surgical gown over the special clothing and sterile rubber gloves.
• Dissection room: Work clothing, specialized protective clothing, and PPE.
• Farm visits: Work clothing (preferably overalls or a coverall), washable footwear or rubber boots, and protective clothing if necessary. 

The purpose of using personal protective equipment (PPE) is to reduce the risk of contamination to clothing, protect the skin and mucous membranes, and minimize the transmission of pathogens from patient to patient, to humans, or the surrounding environment. PPE includes gloves, protective outerwear/clothing, goggles, face shields, visors or masks, protective aprons, footwear, headgear, and other equipment to protect the user from infections or injuries. 

Using PPE is an essential infection control measure that should be implemented as a standard practice in all clinical situations and during possible exposure to infection sources (e.g., laboratory samples, animal cages, and enclosures). 

All employees and students who come into contact with animals or biological material derived from animals must have access to appropriately sized PPE. If clients assist the veterinarian in infectious situations, PPE must also be made available to them. 

The choice of PPE depends on the procedure and the level of exposure risk to a potential source of infection or other hazard. 

Protective gloves 

Gloves reduce the risk of pathogen transmission by forming a protective barrier between hands and the environment. Gloves must be worn: 

• When handling diagnostic samples (urine, faeces, aspirates, swabs);
• While working with microbial and cell cultures, anatomical and histological preparations, and biological materials from animals;
• When in contact with blood, faeces, various bodily fluids, or skin injuries;
• During dental or obstetric procedures;
• While resuscitating an animal;
• During animal necropsies;
• When handling contaminated cages, sandboxes, equipment, or soiled laundry;
• If there are injuries to the skin on hands;
• When touching the contaminated outer surface of protective gowns. 

Protective clothing/outerwear 

Protective clothing is necessary to protect oneself and reduce the risk of pathogen transmission via clothing to patients, animal owners, colleagues, and bystanders. 
Protective clothing (overalls, coveralls, non-sterile gowns, aprons) should be chosen according to the procedure or the risk category of the potential infection source. 
Liquid-resistant gowns/coveralls should be used in cases of isolation-requiring infectious diseases or if there is a possibility of contact with blood or other bodily fluids or their splashes. Laboratory procedures should follow laboratory guidelines and safety requirements. Disposable gowns should be discarded into designated containers after use and not reused. 

Goggles, visors (face shields), and masks 

Face protection must be warn in all situations where splashes or sprays may occur (e.g., abscess drainage, wound irrigation, dental procedures, obstetrics, necropsy) to prevent pathogenic material from reaching the eyes, nose, and mouth mucous membranes. Goggles combined with a surgical mask or a face shield provide sufficient protection during most veterinary procedures with splash and spray risks. 

Headgear 

Disposable headgear protects hair and the scalp from contamination. 

The sequence for donning and removing PPE should be adjusted according to the equipment used. 

Follow safe work practices to protect yourself and limit the spread of infection. 

• Avoid touching your face with your hands.
• Avoid touching surfaces.
• Change gloves if they are torn or heavily contaminated.
• Wash and disinfect hands. 

PPE donning sequence 

1. Perform hand hygiene.
2. Put on a protective gown or coverall, and footwear covers if necessary.
3. Wear a mask or respirator.
4. Put on goggles or a visor.
5. Don gloves. 

The PPE must be removed in an order that minimizes the risk of self-contamination.  

PPE removal sequence 

1. Remove the gown along with gloves, and footwear covers if applicable.
2. Perform hand hygiene.
3. Remove goggles or visor.
4. Remove the mask or respirator.
5. Perform hand hygiene. 

Waste management 

In VLI offices, lecture rooms, corridors, and lounge areas, centralized waste container system is used. Waste containers located in the teaching buildings allow for separate collection of different types of waste. Additionally, there are separate containers for hazardous waste (e.g., batteries). 
Waste sorting must be carried out according to the established procedures! Relevant guidelines can be found on the University's website. 

In the VLI Clinical Veterinary Joint Laboratory (F. R. Kreutzwaldi 62) and the laboratories of the Department of Veterinary Biomedicine and Food Hygiene (F. R. Kreutzwaldi 56 and 62), waste management is regulated by specific instructions outlined in the "link opens in new pageGuidelines for Handling Laboratory Wastelink opens in new page"link opens in new page. Waste management in the Animal Clinic is governed by the "link opens in new pageWaste Management Guidelineslink opens in new page"link opens in new page (2022). 

Waste requiring special handling is collected separately from regular waste. Rooms are equipped with appropriately labelled collection containers for different types of waste. 

It is required that all individuals working in the laboratory have familiarized themselves with the safety-related documents adopted by the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) and have undergone laboratory safety training before starting work in the laboratory. This training is conducted by the direct supervisor or instructor. The employee confirms familiarity with the guidelines in the VITS environment, and the student confirms it with signature after the training is completed.

Estonian University of Life Sciences “General Safety Instructions for Working in Research and Teaching Laboratories”link opens in new page.

General provisions 

• Access to the laboratory by unauthorized persons must be restricted. Unauthorized persons may be present in the laboratory only in exceptional cases and with the consent of the unit's staff.
• Wearing protective clothing (lab coat) is mandatory while working in the laboratory, and other personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, protective mask, shoes/overshoes) must be used depending on the nature of the work or other safety risks.
• The use of outdoor footwear in the laboratory must be avoided; overshoes or closed-toe footwear that covers the entire foot may be used instead. Eating, drinking, smoking (including e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco), and using cosmetic products or personal electronic devices are strictly prohibited in laboratory spaces. If the use of electronic devices is essential for work or study purposes, safety rules must be followed: the device must be protected from contamination and cleaned upon leaving the laboratory.
• Long hair must be tied back at the nape of the neck so that it does not fall forward or onto the shoulders.
• Fingernails must be short (the free edge of the nail must not exceed the fingertip), clean, healthy, and well groomed.
• Nail polish, artificial nails, and nail decorations are not allowed.
• Jewelry must be removed before starting work.
• For individuals with artificial eyelashes, safety goggles must be worn in the laboratory. 

Be prepared for accidents! 

• Remember the location of first aid kits, eye rinsing stations or eyewash showers, fire alarm buttons, emergency exits, and first aid providers.
• In laboratories where open-flame burners are used, remember the location of the fire blanket and fire extinguisher. 

Teaching laboratories 

Guidelines for students 

• Before starting any activities in the lab, carefully think them through. If in doubt, ask your supervisor for clarification and strictly follow written and verbal instructions. If a student does not understand a guideline or a specific task, they must consult their instructor before proceeding.
• Appropriate attire is required (lab coat, medical attire, etc.), and long hair must be tied back. Loose sleeves, flowing scarves, ties, or similar items are not allowed.
• The use of smart devices in the lab is prohibited!
• Equipment powered by electricity or gas, or other potentially hazardous devices, may only be used by students who have received proper training.
• Pay attention to the activities of fellow students and, if necessary, remind them of safety precautions. If someone knowingly violates safety rules, inform your supervisor or the lab technician.
• The workspace must be clean and tidy! Spilled liquids or material fragments can damage equipment, clothing, or skin.
• Eating, drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco products, or applying cosmetics is not allowed in the lab.
• Acting responsibly in the lab is essential. Students must continuously monitor their experiments.
• Wandering around the lab, disturbing, startling, or distracting other students during experiments is prohibited.
• Only conduct experiments that have been approved by the instructor. No unauthorized experiments are allowed.
• While working in the lab, keep your hands away from your face (especially your eyes and mouth) and body.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after completing an experiment.
• Be vigilant and cautious in the lab. If a hazardous situation arises, report it immediately to the instructor.
• Before using chemicals or equipment, carefully read the labels, instructions, and safety data sheets.
• When setting up and using experimental equipment, follow the instructor's guidelines.
• Identify the location and use of safety equipment (first aid kits, fire blankets, and fire extinguishers).
• Be aware of the location of the fire alarm button and emergency exits.
• Know how to act during a fire drill in the lab (close containers, shut off electrical devices). 

All the rules presented in this chapter also apply to diagnostic and R&D laboratories at the animal clinic. Before starting work in these laboratories for the first time, it is the responsibility of each employee's/individual’s (including doctoral students, students, visiting staff, visiting students, etc.) immediate supervisor, mentor, or host to conduct safety instructions. For guidance, contact the laboratory's biosafety officer (see Biosecurity contacts) or the laboratory manager. 

This chapter outlines the workplace safety requirements for the Food Microbiology Laboratory of the Food Hygiene and Safety Unit within the Department of Veterinary Biomedicine and Food Hygiene at EMÜ. 

The safety guidelines that apply at EMÜ are mandatory for laboratory staff, employees conducting experiments, students at all levels of study, and visiting researchers (hereinafter referred to as: staff). 

General requirements 

• Only persons who have familiarized themselves with the occupational safety documents in effect at EMÜ and have undergone laboratory safety training, conducted by a staff member from the Food Hygiene and Safety Unit, are allowed to work in the laboratory.
• Unauthorized persons may only be in the laboratory under special circumstances and with prior coordination with a unit’s staff member.
• Eating, drinking, smoking (including e-cigarettes), using mobile devices, and applying cosmetics are strictly prohibited in the laboratory.
• When working in the laboratory, it is mandatory to wear protective clothing (lab coat), and depending on the nature of the work or other safety factors, other PPE (gloves, safety glasses, mask, footwear/plastic shoe covers) must be worn.
• The use of outdoor shoes in the laboratory must be avoided. Only plastic shoe covers or closed-toe, full-foot-covering indoor shoes are allowed. 

Procedures for entering and exiting the laboratory  

1. Before entering the laboratory, outerwear, personal items, and, if necessary, outdoor shoes are placed in a lockable classroom or in lockable cabinets located in the anteroom of the laboratory. Afterward, indoor shoes or disposable shoe covers are worn.
2. In the anteroom, there are sinks for handwashing and supplies for washing and disinfection. Before entering the laboratory, hand hygiene is performed, lab coat is put on, and, if necessary, other PPE (mask, apron, etc.) is used.
3. Before entering the laboratory room, UV lights must be turned off. During UV light sterilization (violet light inside the room), it is prohibited to enter the working areas.
4. Gloves are put on inside the laboratory room.
5. It is prohibited to leave the food microbiology laboratory while wearing personal protective equipment (lab coat, gloves, etc.).
6. Before leaving the laboratory, gloves are discarded in the waste bin in the laboratory room. Next, in the anteroom, the lab coat is removed, disposable shoe covers are thrown away into the waste container, shoes are changed if necessary, and hand hygiene is performed. 

Working in the laboratory 

1. When working in the laboratory, strict adherence to safety requirements is essential, whereas the work must be safe for both the person conducting the work and others present in the laboratory.
2. Apply safe work practices when conducting experiments in the laboratory to prevent harmful effects of biological, chemical, and other factors on health, as well the spread of hazardous materials to other rooms and/or the external environment.
3. While working in the laboratory, rushing should be avoided to reduce the risk of dangerous situations (spillage of biologically hazardous materials, breaking of test tubes, dropping of objects, accidents related to equipment use, etc.).
4. Exit pathways and aisles within the laboratory need to be kept free from obstructions to allow for a quick exit from the rooms in case of an accident or emergency situation.
5. While working in the laboratory, hair must be tied back, and nails should be kept short.
6. Personal items should be kept off work surfaces during laboratory work, and gloves should not be used to touch personal items, face, hair, or glasses.
7. If an employee has a medical condition that prevents them from working with biological materials and chemicals, they must immediately notify the responsible instructor and/or unit head.
8. Any dangerous situation that arises during laboratory work should be immediately reported to the responsible instructor and/or unit head. 

Working with laboratory equipment 

1. Only individuals who have received appropriate training may work with laboratory equipment and other apparatus.
2. Before using any equipment for the first time, a staff member of the unit will provide necessary instructions, which must be confirmed with a signature.
3. Any suspected malfunctions and irregular readings of laboratory equipment/instruments/apparatus should be addressed promptly; the use of the equipment must be immediately stopped, and a staff member of the unit or unit head should be notified.
4. Switch off apparatus/equipment after use.
5. When using a UV lamp, eye protection (e.g., safety goggles) must be worn to protect against UV light. Direct exposure to UV light should be avoided, and UV lamps should be used for the shortest possible time.
6. Extreme caution must be exercised when using an alcohol lamp to avoid tipping it over. If the alcohol lamp is used under a fume hood and an accident occurs, the fume hood should be immediately turned off.
7. Only employees who have received proper training may work with autoclaves. 

Working with biological materials 

1. In the food microbiology laboratory, various food pathogens (e.g., Campylobacter, Listeria, etc.) are handled.
2. Inoculation of pathogenic microorganisms is performed in a laminar flow hood.
3. In case of bacterial contamination of tables, equipment, walls, floor, or other surfaces, those present in the laboratory must be informed of the situation, and the contaminated area must be immediately disinfected.
4. If an employee working in the laboratory comes into direct contact with pathogenic microorganisms, the affected area should be washed as quickly as possible with a bactericidal hand-washing solution and disinfected. If this happens to a student, the responsible supervisor and/or unit head must be informed.
5. Clean and disinfect the work surfaces and tools after working with bacteria.
6. All potentially infectious waste materials must be collected and sterilized by autoclaving before being taken out of the laboratory. 

Working with hazardous chemicals 

1. Employees may not work with hazardous chemical substances unless they have received relevant training and experience.
2. Hazardous chemical waste must be collected and disposed of according to EMÜ established procedures. 

When working in the anatomy complex, it is mandatory to be familiar with and follow the safety guidelines established by the Estonian University of Life Sciences. Work in the complex may not begin before reviewing these documents and receiving initial instructions from the immediate supervisor. 

• When working in the dissection facility, it is mandatory to wear protective clothing (lab coat), indoor footwear, gloves, and, depending on the nature of the work or other safety factors, additional personal protective equipment (safety goggles, face mask).
• Long hair must be tied back at the nape of the neck so that it does not fall forward or onto the shoulders.
• Fingernails must be short (the free edge of the nail should not exceed the fingertip), clean, intact, and well-groomed.
• Wearing nail polish, artificial nails, or nail decorations is not allowed.
• Jewellery (rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches, etc.) must be removed before starting work.
• Eating, drinking, smoking (including e-cigarettes), using mobile devices, and applying cosmetics are strictly prohibited in the dissection area. If the use of mobile devices is essential for work or study purposes, safety rules must be followed, the devices must be protected from contamination, and cleaned before leaving the laboratory. 

When attending the anatomy practical training, the student must have their own lab coat. 

Indoor footwear, rubber gloves, additional protective clothing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) are available on-site. 

10.1. Entering the dissecting room 

• The dissecting room may only be entered and exited through the changing rooms. In the anteroom the lab coat is put on footwear is changed, and the person passes over a disinfectant mat.
• Outer clothing and personal items, including phones and other electronic devices, must be left in the locker in the changing room (the exception is if they are needed for educational purposes). 

10.2. Working in the dissecting room 

• While working in the dissecting room, protective clothing must be worn (lab coat, and if necessary, a hat, rubber or plastic apron, or other special clothing), rubber footwear (clogs, boots), and protective gloves.
• Only electronic devices intended for educational purposes are allowed in the dissecting room. These devices must be protected from contamination and disinfected after leaving the dissecting room.
• Care must be taken to avoid injuring oneself or fellow students with sharp objects or cutting tools, as well as to avoid making unnecessary incisions in anatomical specimens. 

Finishing the work  

• The specimen (carcass, animal body parts, etc.) is covered with plastic wrap and placed in the refrigerator; for long-term preservation, the specimen is placed in a container with a preserving solution (a water solution of ethanol and glycerol).
• Dissection waste is placed in a special waste bag and stored in the refrigerator.
• Single-use scalpel blades must be disposed of in the designated container.
• Instruments are washed with detergent and water, then placed in a disinfectant solution, and stored in designated location.
• Dissection tables are cleaned with detergent, rinsed, and dried. 

10.3. Exiting the dissecting room 

• Used gloves are placed in the designated container.
• Hands are washed with soap and warm water, then treated with a disinfectant.
• Indoor footwear/rubber boots are left in the anteroom.
• The used lab coat is removed and placed in a plastic bag. If necessary, it is washed. Until washing, the lab coat is kept in a closed plastic bag; lab coats are washed separately from other clothes. 

10.4. Room cleaning and textile item washing 

• All students and staff are responsible for cleanliness of rooms.
• It is the student's responsibility to clean and tidy the workstation after work is finished and to wash used instruments.
• The dissecting room is cleaned, tables are washed with detergent and dried at the end of each practical session.• The floor is cleaned at the end of the day.
• A deep cleaning of the dissecting room is performed once a year. Doors, walls, other vertical surfaces, and floors are washed.
• Refrigerators are cleaned regularly.
• Indoor shoes (rubber footwear) are washed and disinfected after each practical session.
• Disinfection mat is used to soak/moisten shoe soles and sides. The mat should not be dry, and the solution is added as needed. A fresh solution is prepared at the beginning of each week.
• Dirty textile items are collected in designated containers and washed when the container is full or once a week. Clean laundry is stored separately in a closet. 

10.5. Behaviour in the event of an accident 

• Stop working and inform the supervisor of the incident. If a liquid gets into the eye, rinse the eyes thoroughly with water above the eye wash station (located in the side room).
• In the case of a hand injury:
• Remove the glove
• Wash the injured area under running water and disinfect with an antiseptic. If necessary, cover the wound with a bandage or apply a dressing. Wound care supplies are located in the preparation room on the shelf in a emergency bag marked with a red cross.
• To continue working, use a new pair of gloves
• If the cut is deep, consult a doctor. 

10.6. Handling of anatomical specimens (employee responsibilities) 

Only materials from controlled animals are used as educational tools. 

10.6.1. Procurement of specimens 

• Educational materials are primarily obtained from EMÜ Veterinary Clinic, Märja Dairy Research Farm, as well as from a slaughterhouse, meat processing company, or registered animal husbandry facility recognized by the competent authority.
• Specimens are brought into the preparation room through a separate entrance.
• Appropriate waterproof containers and trolleys are used for transporting the specimens.
• Trolleys and containers are cleaned after each use. 

10.6.2. Storage of specimens 

• Carcasses are packed in waste bags, labelled (species, date, possible diagnosis, possible use in teaching), and registered in the database (species, location in the refrigerator).
• Carcasses are stored in a freezer at -12°C.
• Preserved specimens are stored separately in airtight metal containers in a solvent composed of water, ethanol and glycerol (1:1:1).
• Preserved muscle specimens are treated with a solution of ethanol and glycerol. The specimens are stored in the preparation room. 

10.6.3. Use of specimens 

• Before the training session, frozen specimens are thawed in the refrigerator at 2 to 4°C.
• Specimens that are used repeatedly are packaged, labelled, and stored in the freezer at -12°C, covered with plastic film or in plastic bags on appropriate trays for the next practical session. 

10.6.4. Waste disposal 

• Specimen waste is collected in waste bags and stored in the freezer in waste bins until disposal.
• Waste is transported from the preparation room only through the exterior door.
• Animal waste is taken to containers located near the pathological anatomy necropsy complex, which are emptied by AS Vireen.
• Waste is transported in covered containers on a trolley. Containers and trolleys are cleaned after use. 

10.7. Waste management 

• Regular waste (mixed general waste, paper, packaging) is collected separately from hazardous waste generated during the preparation process: sharps, as well as pathological waste (animal organs and body parts). See also Section 10.6.4.
• Sharps are collected in a designated labelled container in the preparation room. The container is replaced when it is filled to ¾ capacity. The filled container is then taken to the waste collection point at the veterinary clinic.
• Residues of hazardous chemicals are handled according to the safety instructions provided on the chemical's safety data sheet. Hazardous chemicals are collected in a container labelled "Hazardous Waste," sealed leak-proof, and handed over to a waste management contractor. Packaging contaminated with hazardous chemicals and swept-up waste are treated as hazardous waste and collected in a container with a lid labelled "Contaminated Packaging." The full container is then handed over to the waste management contractor. 

10.8. Anatomy museum and anatomy laboratory 

The anatomy museum and anatomy laboratory store dry and preserved specimens. The museum and laboratory are open during class hours and, by prior arrangement, also outside of class hours. 

Rules for staying in the museum and laboratory 

• Eating, drinking, and the use of tobacco products are prohibited.
• Specimens, but also books, may only be taken from the cabinets by prior arrangement with the supervisor.
• Before leaving, specimens must be returned to their proper place.
• Wash your hands.
• The last visitor is responsible for tidying the room and turning off the lights. 

When working in the necropsy facility, it is mandatory to be familiar with and follow the safety instructions established by EMÜ. Work in the complex may not begin before familiarizing oneself with these documents and undergoing initial instruction provided by the immediate supervisor or instructor. 

Access to the necropsy room is restricted by locked doors. 

The necropsy room has three entrances and exits: 

1. Through the safety barrier used by employees and students to enter.
2. From the courtyard, for bringing in and removal of research materials (carcasses, specimen). The necropsy room is also equipped with a hoist.
3. Through the storage room leading to the necropsy room. 

In the necropsy facility, there are hand washing sinks and sinks for instrument cleaning, as well as cleaning, washing, and disinfecting agents for hands, instruments (scalpels, scissors, saws, etc.), and surfaces; first aid supplies and an eye-wash station. 

• In the necropsy room, work clothes, protective clothing, rubber boots, and PPE must be worn.
• Long hair must be tied back at the nape of the neck so that it does not fall forward or onto the shoulders.
• Fingernails must be short (the free edge of the nail should not exceed the fingertip), clean, intact, and well-maintained.
• Wearing of nail polish, artificial nails, and nail decorations is not permitted.
• Jewellery (rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches, etc.) must be removed before starting work.
• Eating, drinking, smoking (including e-cigarettes), and the use of mobile devices and cosmetic products are strictly prohibited in the necropsy room. If the use of mobile devices is essential for work or study, safety rules must be followed, the device must be protected from contamination, and the device must be cleaned when leaving the necropsy room. 

In the necropsy facility, practical training of students is carried out, and necropsies are performed both for the EMÜ Veterinary Clinic as well as for businesses and private individuals. Therefore, it is necessary to constantly consider the potential risk of infection and follow precautions to prevent the spread of infection. 

The decision to perform a necropsy or refuse it, as well as the hygiene measures to be applied during the necropsy, is made by the veterinary pathologist based on the animal's medical history and diagnosis, taking into account all relevant factors, including the animal's origin (it may have been imported from a foreign country). 

In the case of a suspected zoonotic disease, students are not involved in the performing of necropsies. Necropsy is carried out by the responsible employee/veterinary pathologist, applying enhanced hygiene measures (additional PPE, such as safety glasses, face mask, etc.). 

In the case of suspicion of a notifiable animal disease (see the Biosafety and Biosecurity Handbook, Chapter 8 "Notifiable and reportable animal diseases"), the responsible employee/veterinary pathologist may refuse to conduct the necropsy. If it is decided to proceed with the necropsy, students will not be involved. 

In the case of suspicion and diagnosis of especially dangerous or notifiable animal diseases, the veterinary pathologist must inform the head of the department and the Tartu representative of the Southern Region of the Agriculture and Food Board at https://pta.agri.ee/link opens in new page. 

The list of diseases can be found in the Biosafety and Biosecurity Handbook, Chapter 8 “Notifiable and reportable animal diseases”. 

11.1. Entering the necropsy facility 

• Outdoor shoes must be left on the shelf in the corridor at the first entrance. Outerwear and personal items, including phones and other electronic devices, must be left in the locker in the changing room (the exception is when they are needed for educational purposes; in this case, the device must be protected from contamination and disinfected after leaving the preparation room).
• Entry to the necropsy room is only allowed through the safety barrier, where:
• A lab coat or, if necessary, a coverall/protective gown is worn, along with a protective apron (made of plastic or rubber).  If required, a head covering and additional personal protective equipment (PPE) are also worn.
• Rubber boots are worn. 

11.2. Working in the necropsy room 

• Protective gloves, protective clothing, rubber boots, head coverings (if needed), and other PPE are worn in the necropsy room.
• Care is taken to avoid injuring oneself or others with sharp objects or cutting tools, as well as making unnecessary incisions in carcasses or preparations.
• Safety requirements for working with chemicals, electrical equipment, and sharp tools are followed.
• Work with necropsy room equipment (e.g., electric saw, hoist) is done under the guidance and supervision of the responsible employee. 

Finishing the work 

• When you have completed the necropsy, discard the necropsy waste/carcass in a designated labelled container or waste bag, and store it in the freezer until transferred to the waste management contractor.
• Put the disposable scalpel blades in the designated container. When the container is ¾ full, it should be replaced.
• Wash the instruments and place in a disinfectant solution. Later, the responsible employee stores them in the instrument storage room.
• Wash necropsy tables with detergent, then rinse and disinfect. 

11.3. Exiting the necropsy room 

• Place used protective gloves in the designated container.
• Wash rubber boots and aprons under running water in the necropsy room.
• Exit the necropsy room through the safety barrier.
• Remove dirty protective clothing and place in the designated container in the disinfection room.
• Leave aprons, lab coats, and rubber boots in the protective clothing room.
• Before leaving the protective clothing room, wash hands with soap and warm water, and use a hand sanitizer. 

Behaviour in case of an accident 

• Work is stopped, and the supervisor is informed of the incident.
• If your eye is exposed to chemicals flush the eye thoroughly with water at the eyewash station. The eyewash station is located in the necropsy room.
• In case of a hand injury:
• Remove the glove
• Wash the injured area under running water and disinfect with an antiseptic. If necessary, cover the wound with a plaster or bandage. Wound care supplies are located in the preparation room on the emergency shelf in a red cross-marked bag.
• A new pair of gloves should be used to continue work.
• If the wound is deep, seek medical attention. 

11.4. Cleaning, laundry of workwear 

General cleaner cleans the cabinets, changing rooms, and corridor daily. 

Necropsy room 

• Necropsy tables are washed after each procedure and at the end of the day. Necropsy tables are disinfected at the end of the day.
• The floor is washed at the end of the day, and more frequently if necessary. Pressure washer should be used, whereas aerosol formation should be avoided.
• Refrigerators should be kept clean; cleaning and maintenance should be performed on a regular basis. 

Deep cleaning of the necropsy complex is carried out once a year: windows, walls, vertical surfaces, and floors are washed, and all equipment and refrigerators are cleaned. 

Workwear 

Dirty lab coats are collected in the designated container and washed and dried as needed, but at least once a week. The washing machine is located in the instrument room. 

Handling the laundry exposed to infectious material 

• Enhanced hygiene measures must be followed: wear PPE (protective coat, and if necessary, face mask and safety glasses).
• Infectious laundry must be washed separately from other laundry, and it should be washed last.
• Before machine washing, items should be soaked for 10 −15 minutes in a bleach solution (regular bleach − 1:9 water).
• Bleach should also be added to the machine wash according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Infectious laundry must be tumble-dried at the maximum heat setting. 

11.5. Necropsy materials (animal carcasses, body parts, etc.) 

• Necropsy material comes from the EMÜ Veterinary Clinic and the Märja Dairy Research Farm, or is submitted for diagnostic necropsy from businesses or private individuals.
• Necropsy material is taken into the necropsy room through the outside door.
• EMÜ vehicle is used for transport. In the necropsy complex, a hoist, cart, and waterproof containers with lids are used.
• Businesses or private individuals bring animal carcasses to the necropsy facility themselves.
• Transport vehicles and equipment are cleaned and disinfected after each use.
• Educational material is stored in a plastic bag, labelled with the date, sender’s details, and animal species, in the freezer on a separate shelf (shelves). Before use, the necropsy material is thawed.
• Necropsy material brought to the facility for diagnostic purposes is returned to the client or sent for disposal to AS Vireen. 

11.6. Waste management 

• Necropsy waste
• Necropsy waste is collected in a disposal container and handed over to a waste management company at the earliest opportunity. Smaller amounts are stored until transfer in a plastic bag or box in the freezer, on a separate labelled shelf.
• After use, the necropsy waste container is washed. Clean containers are stored in an unheated garage.
• Records are kept for necropsy waste sent for disposal, noting the material handed over to the waste management company, its total weight, and the date.
• Sharps are collected in a designated container in the necropsy room. The container is replaced when it is ¾ full. A full container is stored in the chemicals room until disposal.
• Hazardous chemical waste is disposed of according to the safety data sheet of the specific chemical. Hazardous chemicals must be collected in a container labelled “Hazardous Waste,” sealed to prevent leaks, and handed over to the waste management company. Packaging and cleaning materials contaminated with hazardous chemicals are disposed of as hazardous waste. Such waste is collected in a closed container labelled “Contaminated Packaging.” The full container is handed over to the waste management company. 

Basic occupational health and safety rules in the animal clinic  

•  Entry to the veterinary clinic by unauthorized persons is restricted. Employees can access the clinic using a personal door key card. 
• Proper work attire must be worn while working in the clinic. If the situation or nature of the work requires it, protective clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used. Work clothes must be clean and should be changed immediately if visibly soiled or contaminated with blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially high-risk (infectious) materials. 
• Eating, drinking, smoking, or using tobacco products is not allowed in clinical areas, laboratories, or technical rooms. 
• Personal pets are not allowed in official and teaching premises, except for educational purposes. In such cases, animals must be kept separate from patients outside of teaching activities. 
• Unnecessary contact with veterinary clinic patients should be avoided to prevent the potential spread of pathogens. 
• Photographing, filming, or sharing recorded materials of clinic patients and clients via any media channel or using them for educational purposes is only permitted with the written consent of the animal owner. 
• Long hair must be tied at the nape of the neck so it does not fall forward or onto shoulders. Fingernails must be short (free edge not exceeding the fingertip), clean, healthy, and well-maintained. 
• The use of nail polish, artificial nails, and nail decorations is not allowed. 
• All jewelry must be removed before starting work. 
• If wearing false eyelashes, protective goggles must be worn in laboratories and operating rooms. 
• Whenever working with animals, their housing environments, or biological materials from animals:
• Wash and disinfect hands.
• Cover any wounds.
• Wear gloves when in contact with blood, bodily fluids, damaged skin, or mucous membranes.
• Protect clothing from potential contamination with splashes of blood or bodily fluids using work attire and PPE.
• Use PPE to shield mucous membranes if there is a risk of splashes reaching the eyes or face. 

Be prepared for accidents! 

• Know the locations of first aid kits, eye wash stations, or emergency showers, and the identities of first aid providers.
• The names and phone numbers of first aid providers are listed near first aid cabinets and in the clinic's Provet patient management system.
• In case of emergency, call 112.
• Familiarize yourself with the locations of fire alarm buttons and emergency exits. 

The movement of patients, animal owners, employees, and students within the veterinary clinic can significantly affect the risk of infection related to veterinary services. To reduce this risk, adhere strictly to the clinic's established rules. 

The facilities are divided into four areas, each with different access restrictions. Restricted areas are marked with coloured tape. When moving between areas, the established rules for each area must be followed. 

The chief veterinarian of the animal clinic is responsible for setting access restrictions and marking the designated areas. 

General area – includes the reception, waiting room, and consultation rooms. The general area of the clinic is marked with signs. Access to consultation rooms is allowed with staff approval only. Clinical attire and indoor footwear must be worn. 

Restricted access area – marked with green signage: These rooms are generally not accessible to pet owners. Access with a door key card. Clinical attire and indoor footwear must be worn. 

Clean area – yellow and black striped marking: clinic areas typically not accessible to animal owners. Entry is allowed only in clinical attire and indoor footwear

Sterile area – red and white striped marking: the surgery block. Entry is allowed only in surgical attire, including footwear, scrub/gown, mask, and cap. 

Patient infection risk categories and corresponding hygiene measures 

In a veterinary clinic, it is crucial to identify potentially infectious patients as quickly as possible (ideally before entering the clinic) and take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection. 

Based on the ability of pathogens to spread to other animals and/or humans (zoonoses), veterinary clinic patients are categorized into three risk-level groups. The risk level determines the precautions to be taken when handling patients. 

• Group 1 (Green label): Low risk. Non-infectious patients. 

It is important to avoid nosocomial infections, i.e., infections transmitted from other patients in the clinic. 

The patient can stay in the inpatient unit. General precautions are applied to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission to other animals/people and vice versa, as well as the risk of transmission in clinic rooms. 

• Group 2 (Yellow label): Moderate risk. 
  A patient suspected of or diagnosed with a disease that could be transmitted to other patients or suspected of having a zoonotic disease (potentially transmissible to humans). 

The patient can stay in the inpatient unit. A designated person should handle the animal, and, if possible, it should be handled as the last patient of the day. Barrier nursing measures must be followed when handling the patient. 

• Group 3 (Red label): High risk. 
  A patient suspected of or diagnosed with a disease that is highly contagious to other patients or suspected of having a zoonotic disease. 

The patient is placed in isolation. If a highly contagious disease or a disease causing severe illness in humans is suspected or diagnosed, the patient is isolated until the diagnosis is clarified. 

For questions regarding risk categories, consult the head veterinarian of the clinic.  

Important infectious diseases and corresponding hygiene measures are described in detail in the chapters on veterinary clinics in the handbook. 

Patient and patient care 

When handling a patient, comprehensive well-being of the animal must be ensured. The animal must not be endangered or subjected to stress or undue suffering. 

In the stationary care unit of the veterinary clinic, the patient is placed in an appropriate cage or stall, and adequate species-appropriate food and water are provided. If the health condition allows, the patient is walked or taken outside to a paddock. 

Animals, as well as their cages and stalls, must be kept tidy and as clean as possible. Cages and stalls are cleaned daily: faeces are removed, bedding is replaced, and the area around the cage or stall is tidied. After a patient is discharged, the cage or stall is cleaned and disinfected. Drinking and feeding utensils for animals are regularly cleaned, washed, or replaced. 

Equipment and tools are cleaned and disinfected after use and returned to their designated locations. Used materials and tools are replaced with new ones. 

Unnecessary contact with the patient should be avoided to minimize the risk of nosocomial infections. 

Care and treatment procedures for infectious patients (moderate to high risk) should, if possible, be performed last, and heightened hygiene or isolation requirements must be observed. The risk of infection and the corresponding hygiene measures are described in detail in the respective chapters of each veterinary clinic's manual. 

Injuries caused by animal bites, scratches, or other exposures 

A staff member, student, or pet owner working with or handling animals must be able to correctly interpret the animal's behaviour—whether it is fearful, anxious, or stressed—and recognize that this may lead to aggression. To prevent injuries caused by animals, it is possible to mechanically or medically limit their movement (e.g., administering sedatives or anaesthesia). For this purpose, appropriate medications and equipment must be available: muzzles of various sizes, bite-resistant gloves, halters, bits, restraint cages, and similar tools. All equipment must be easy to clean. 

Veterinary staff must not allow client opinions or attitudes to interfere with implementing suitable precautions, such as muzzling the animal. 

If an animal bites or scratches 

• Wash the wound immediately and thoroughly with soap and water.
• In the case of a bite or scratch from a bat, wash the wound for about 5 minutes, then apply a virucidal antiseptic (e.g., povidone-iodine) to the wound and seek medical attention.
• Notify your immediate supervisor or instructor about the incident.
• Write an incident report, take a photo of the accident site if possible, and send it to the occupational safety specialist and/or workplace safety representative.
• Incident report templates are available in electronic form in the animal clinic's Provet patient management system (Provet/File Base/Occupational Safety/Incident Report Template) and in paper form in the clinic staff break room.
• Witnesses must also write an incident report.
• Determine whether the animal was vaccinated against rabies.
• If the victim was exposed to a potentially rabid animal, it is essential to:
• Contact the Southern Regional Office of the Health Boardlink opens in new page: 
• Notify the Agriculture and Food Boardlink opens in new page 

Seek medical attention immediately if: 

• The bite is on the hand or over a joint.
• The bite is over a prosthesis or implant.
• The bite is in the genital area.
• The bite is over a tendon sheath, such as in the wrist or ankle area.
• The bite has caused significant tissue damage, such as a deep laceration.
• The biter was a bat.
• The wound is at risk of tetanus. 

Always consult a doctor for bites, especially cat bites, if the person has: 

• A weakened immune system (e.g., HIV/AIDS, transplant recipients, chemotherapy patients).
• Chronic swelling in the bite area.
• A removed spleen.
• Liver disease, diabetes, lupus, or another systemic illness. 

Seek medical attention without delay if: 

• Pain in the bite area worsens.
• Swelling develops.
• Pus discharges from the wound.
• Fever or swollen lymph nodes occur. 

The doctor will determine if antimicrobial treatment, tetanus vaccination, or other measures (e.g., wound irrigation, cleaning, or suturing) are necessary. 

Emergency contact numbers for doctors, ambulance services, and hospitals must be visibly displayed in the clinic in a public area. 

Safety with sharps  

Working with sharp and pointed objects (sharps) poses a high risk of injury, but most injuries can be easily avoided. 

Instructions for working with sharps 

• Do not remove the needle cap with your mouth.
• Avoid recapping needles whenever possible.
• Sharps must not be handed from one person to another.
• The person generating sharps waste is responsible for its safe disposal.
• Sharps waste must be collected and packaged at the point of generation in a designated container.
• A container for sharps waste must be available in all rooms where such waste is generated.
• Sharps must not be transferred from one container to another.
• Needles used for live vaccine injections or for aspirating bodily fluids or tissues must be placed in the waste container along with the syringe. In other cases, the needle can be removed from the syringe before disposal, which is safest when done using a needle removal device.
• A full container must be replaced with a new one.
• Full containers must be handed over to a waste management company. 

Patients staying in the veterinary clinic's inpatient facility may be visited during agreed-upon hours. Visitors are not left alone in the procedure or animal housing rooms; they are accompanied by a veterinary clinic staff member. If the animal in the inpatient facility is not contagious and its clinical condition allows, the animal will be brought to the reception area for the meeting with the visitor. 

Visitors are asked not to touch other animals. Children must be supervised by an adult. 

Visiting animals placed in isolation is not allowed. As an exception, with the special permission of the attending veterinarian, it is permitted to visit an animal in isolation before euthanasia. 

The general order and cleanliness of the animal clinic premises are the responsibility of all staff members and students attending practical training. Workstations and work areas must be kept tidy and clean. Cleaning should begin in the cleaner areas and progress toward the dirtier areas. Within a room, cleaning starts with higher and cleaner surfaces and moves downward. 

Cleaning is the mechanical removal of visible dirt/organic material, scrubbing with water and soap or cleaning agents. Disinfection is a process that uses specific chemicals or other cleaning methods to destroy pathogens or inhibit their growth. 

• Cleaning is crucial. Organic material reduces the effectiveness of disinfectants, making its prior removal essential. This is especially important for pathogens resistant to most disinfectants. Mechanical cleaning removes these organisms from surfaces.
• Rooms being cleaned must be properly ventilated.
• When working with disinfectants, protective clothing must be worn, and PPE (e.g., masks, face shields, safety glasses, waterproof clothing, and footwear) must be used if there is a risk of splashes.
• Manufacturer’s instructions for the proper dilution, use, and disposal of disinfectants must be followed.
• Instructions for use and safety data sheets for cleaning and disinfecting agents must be accessible to all staff members. 

Disinfectant foot mats and footbaths 

In areas with infected animals, floors are often contaminated with pathogens. To prevent the spread of pathogens, all employees and students must use the disinfectant foot mats/baths on their route at every passage. Foot mats are intended for disinfection of the soles and sides of footwear, while footbaths are for submerging footwear, which requires waterproof shoes. 

The disinfectant solution used in the foot mats/baths must be changed daily or immediately if excessively soiled with bedding or other dirt. This is the responsibility of all clinic staff and interns. 

Farm visits and mobile clinic 

Upon arrival from abroad, visiting a farm in Estonia is not permitted until 48 hours have passed since arriving in Estonia. 

When visiting a farm, you must bring: 

• A sufficient number of personal protective equipment for both staff and students. If multiple farms are visited during a single trip, a separate set of protective clothing must be brought for each farm.
• Necessary supplies for sampling, disinfection, and waste management, including equipment for handling sharps. 

The farm visit should be prepared according to its purpose (including sampling) and include familiarization with the health status of the farm animals. 

Students 

For farm visits conducted as part of practical training, students must have suitable work clothing (coveralls or overalls with a name tag) and rubber footwear, with an optional head covering if desired. Clothing and footwear must be clean when arriving for the visit. Changing into work attire takes place either at the farm or in the Hygiene lock of the productive animal clinic. 

Instructions regarding farm visits are provided by the supervisor during pre-practice guidance. 

On-farm biosecurity requirements 

• Disinfect rubber boots before entering the farm.
• Wash your hands and perform hand antisepsis. See Section 2.1.1. Hand hygienelink opens in new page.
• Wear work clothes brought with you or disposable protective clothing.
• Put on rubber gloves.
• Follow the specific biosecurity instructions for tasks carried out in the livestock facility as provided by your supervisor, instructor, or veterinarian.
• During work, do not touch your mouth or face area with dirty hands (e.g., hands contaminated with manure). If necessary, remove your gloves and replace them afterward with new ones.
• After finishing work in the livestock facility, remove your gloves and, if needed, put on new ones to clean tools and equipment.
• Wash and disinfect all tools and equipment used.
• Remove dirty work clothes or disposable protective clothing and place them in a designated bag brought for this purpose.
• Clean rubber boots with a brush and then disinfect them.
• Finally, wash and disinfect your hands.
• Upon boarding the vehicle, if you do not have spare footwear and/or cannot clean the boots on-site, cover the boots with plastic shoe covers to prevent contamination of the vehicle. 

Vehicles used for farm visits must be equipped with a sufficient number of personal protective equipment for both staff and students, as well as all necessary disinfection and waste management/disposal supplies, including those for sharp objects and, if needed, infectious waste.

When approaching the farm premises, local guidelines and rules regarding movement within the farm area and vehicle parking must be followed. If a student uses their own transportation for the farm visit, the same rules apply. Detailed instructions can be obtained from the supervisor.

The vehicle must be cleaned, tidied, and disinfected after each visit if necessary. Disposable seat covers may be used if required.

Hygiene lock 

Hygiene lock is a secure area with designated ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ zones, used for preparing for visits to veterinary clinics or farm excursions and for returning afterward. 

The clean zone includes lockers and coat racks for outerwear, showers, and toilets. In the changing room, there are lockers for students to store personal clothing and belongings. Outdoor footwear is not worn in the clean area. 

The dirty zone contains hand hygiene supplies, equipment for cleaning and disinfecting footwear, storage for clean footwear, and containers for dirty work clothing. 

Before farm visit 

• Enter the hygiene lock through the clean-side door from the outdoor area.
• Remove your outdoor footwear, place it in the designated area, and proceed in socks or clean indoor shoes (slippers).
• Store your outerwear in the locker or on the coat rack in the changing room.
• Put on or take along your work clothing and footwear. If visiting multiple farms during one trip, bring a separate set of protective clothing for each farm (provided by the instructor).
• Put on rubber boots just before leaving.
• Exit through the clean-side door or through the changing room.
• Once dressed for the excursion, wait for your instructor at the agreed meeting point. 

Returning from a farm visit 

• Enter the decontamination room through the dirty-side door.
• Clean, wash, and disinfect your rubber boots.
• Place the cleaned and disinfected boots on the designated boot rack.
• Put any work clothes that got dirty during the visit into the container; these will be washed at the clinic.
• Students participating in clinical practice or courses requiring repeated farm visits can leave their work clothes in the designated and labelled area in the clinic's changing room for the duration of the practical training period. After the training period, students take their outerwear home. Students attending a one-day visit take their clinic-washed work clothes and footwear home.
• Perform handwashing and disinfection at the designated sink.
• Exit the hygiene lock through the clean-side door. 

1 – Guest Entrance, 

2 – Main Entrance, 

3 – Entrance to the Young Animals Farm Building
Parking is allowed in the green area marked on the picture.
Parking is NOT allowed in the red-marked area in front of the milk tank room door, in the area in front of the Young Animals Farm Unit, or on the side of the building .

Farm visitors are registered. For students, the registration form is the list of participants in the practical training, which is collected by the responsible lecturer.

In the changing room, hands will be washed and disposable rubber gloves are available.

Students enter the farm through the main entrance, door number 2 (main door, in the middle of the building), then proceed along the corridor to the students' changing room (second door on the left). There, they remove their outerwear, which is placed on the coat rack, and put on clean work clothes brought with them.

Students leave their personal outdoor shoes in the changing room and move in socks along the corridor. Clean personal work boots are carried from the changing room by hand. Work boots are put on and disinfected before entering the livestock area (door marked "Dairy Farm Unit Building").

To access the young animals farm building, use the corridor next to the milking area in the livestock section.

Exiting the Farm:

Upon leaving the livestock area, boots are first washed at the boot-washing station (marked on the picture with a red square).

After washing their boots, students proceed to the door of the dairy farm unit building, where they remove their work boots and continue in socks to the students' changing room.