Toolbox
Toolbox
Topic
Topic
START WITH A QUESTION...
When was the last time you paused to check for wildlife, insects, or unsanitary
conditions before starting work?
INTRODUCTION
Biological hazards are often overlooked on job sites, but
they can lead to injuries, illnesses, and dangerous
distractions. Defined as risks caused by living organisms or
viruses, biological hazards are present in both outdoor and
indoor environments. OSHA encourages hazard recognition
and hygiene practices to reduce these risks across all
industries.
INSECT
WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS STINGS AND
Outdoor job sites may expose workers to BITES
bees, snakes, alligators, or even larger
animals like bears. These encounters can Bee stings, spider
bites, and
trigger panic or sudden movement, leading
mosquito exposure
to slips, falls, or unsafe decisions. Always
can lead to allergic
remain aware of your environment and reactions,
report signs of animal activity immediately. infections, or
disease
transmission.
Workers should use
insect repellent as
REPTILES AND DANGEROUS needed and avoid
TERRAIN disturbing nests or
Snakes or alligators near ditches, ponds, or under hives. PPE like
equipment can surprise workers and cause serious gloves and long
incidents. Workers who panic or run may trip, fall, or sleeves also help
step into traffic. Site assessments should include a reduce bite and
scan for wildlife and clear communication on sting risks.
sightings.
UNSANITARY DISEASE
CONDITIONS EXPOSURE
Dirty restrooms or break areas can spread
Biological hazards also include
bacteria, viruses, and parasites that lead to airborne illnesses and viruses.
sickness. Illness can impair focus, In close working environments,
coordination, and performance, increasing poor hygiene or shared
the risk of injury. OSHA requires employers equipment can lead to the
to maintain clean, accessible sanitation spread of colds, flu, or worse.
facilities on-site. Encourage handwashing,
surface sanitizing, and staying
home when sick.
PPE AND PREVENTION
AWARENESS AND
Proper PPE like gloves, face coverings, or RESPONSE
Preventing biological incidents
protective suits may be necessary when
starts with awareness. Scan your
dealing with biological risks—especially surroundings, check high-risk areas,
during cleanup or in known high-risk and follow protocols for dealing
environments. Be sure to use the right with wildlife or unsanitary
conditions. Report hazards
protection for the situation.
immediately, and never try to
handle wild animals yourself.
Time For A Quiz
What is one example of a biological hazard on a worksite?
A) A loose handrail
B) A loud generator
C) A broken ladder
D) A swarm of bees near equipment
Why can wildlife encounters be dangerous even if you aren’t directly attacked?
A) They slow down your work pace
B) They may make you hungry
C) They can cause panic and distraction that lead to accidents
D) They are just annoying
How can unsanitary restrooms create safety risks?
A) They can spread illness and reduce worker performance
B) They attract more animals
C) They smell bad
D) They’re not air conditioned
