Student Manual - College of Veterinary Medicine - Oregon State ...

Q. Why not measure each individual’s exposure and limit it to a certain safe level?
A. At this time, no device or test exists which can satisfactorily monitor the degree of
exposure to CDs. The goal is to reduce everyone’s exposure to as close to zero as
possible.
Q. If exposure cannot be measured and limits cannot be set, how can exposure be
controlled?
A. A number of studies have demonstrated that exposure can be reduced by the use of
gloves, gowns or lab coats, and eye protection and/or face masks.
Q. How should employees regard the possible exposure to CDs if they are pregnant or
attempting to conceive?
A. Employees/students who are pregnant or attempting to become pregnant are encouraged
to discuss how their exposure to CDs might affect their pregnancy with both their
supervisor and personal physician. The consensus of OSHA and professional
pharmacy, and nursing organizations is that protective measures such as those
recommended in the VTH policy are effective in all situations, including possible or
actual pregnancy. Because, some CDs are potential teratogens adherence to these safety
procedures is strongly encouraged.
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