Module 5 · Biological Agents
5.6 Safe Handling and Specimen Collection
8 min read
Surveying biological growth means disturbing it, and disturbing it is what puts spores into the air. The occupational exposure is yours and it is repeated across every job, which makes it a different risk profile from the occupants'. This lesson covers protecting yourself and others during the inspection, avoiding the other hazards that opening up creates, and collecting specimens that survive the journey.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson you will be able to:
- Select appropriate respiratory and hand protection for disturbing biological growth.
- Avoid creating airborne contamination for occupants.
- Recognise the other hazards that opening up creates.
- Collect a specimen that remains identifiable.
Key terms
- RPE
- Respiratory protective equipment. For mould and spore work, a properly fitted particulate respirator rather than a nuisance dust mask.
- Face fit
- Testing that a tight-fitting respirator seals on the individual wearer. Facial hair at the seal defeats it, and an unfitted respirator gives false confidence.
- Containment
- Preventing disturbed material from spreading to other parts of a building — sheeting, controlled openings, and cleaning up.
- Duty to manage
- The obligation on those responsible for non-domestic premises to manage asbestos risk. Relevant because opening up is exactly where asbestos gets disturbed.
Part of the paid course
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