[Occupational environment in veterinary clinics]

In veterinary clinics many drugs and materials are handled, for instance antibiotics, disinfectants and anaesthetic gases. The staff is in close contact with various animal species and performs surgical and obstetrical operations as well as post mortem examinations. X-ray is used widely. Some investigations have indicated, that the working environment has incurred little attention. For example, X-ray equipment has been found defective and air-extraction insufficient in connection with anaesthesias. Consequently the potential for work-related health problems is obvious. The few epidemiologic investigations done indicate an increased frequency of toxic and allergic skin diseases, asthma and certain infections such as ornithosis. As general prophylaxis, better arrangement of the clinics, alterations of drug administration forms and use of gloves and other protective devices are recommended. It is concluded, that the existing knowledge about the working environment in Danish veterinary clinics is scarce, that it may imply health risks, and that further investigation of the question is needed.