Site-Specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP) - Laschools.org

LAUSD Proposed South Region High School #9 & Middle School #4
6-16
December 2006
Site Specific Health & Safety Plan (HASP)
Personnel are advised to wear sturdy work clothes, including long-sleeved shirts and heavy work
gloves as necessary to protect against skin punctures and irritations.
6.3.3.3 Rodents
Another potential biological hazard is contracting respiratory illness from rodent droppings. In
the western U.S., hantavirus is carried by the deer mouse and may be transmitted to humans by
contact with its saliva, urine, and feces. People become infected when the virus is inhaled,
through breaks in the skin, by ingesting contaminated food or water, or by being bitten by an
infected rodent.
Although the chance of getting the virus is very low, the virus is extremely dangerous and may
be fatal to those who are infected. The disease begins with non-specific flu-like symptoms that
include fever, muscle aches, headaches, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, coughing, and
shortness of breath. Progression of the disease leads to fluid in the lungs, heart irregularities, and
kidney failure. The symptoms begin between three days and six weeks after exposure to rodents,
and rapidly progress to severe lung problems and respiratory failure.
Personnel should be aware that infected mice may be present in semi-rural settings and vacant
buildings and should avoid activities that may disturb fresh or dried rodent excretions in such
areas. Personnel will use high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) equipped air-purifying
respirators when working in rodent-infested areas or when entering shed of buildings containing
mice infestations. Vector control authorities should be contacted upon the discovery of an active
infestation.
6.3.3.4 Human Biological Waste/Bloodborne Pathogen Control
A shovel should be used to remove the material from the work area. Chlorine bleach/disinfectant
will be used to decontaminate the shovel. If project personnel is accidently pricked by a
hypodermic needle, he/she will be immediately transported to the local emergency hospital for
evaluation and treatment. The SHSO will contact the PM and an accident report will be
prepared.
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