Chemical hazards faced by animal handlers.

A number of chemical hazards are associated with the care and handling of animals. A variety of pesticides are used to control fleas, ticks, and other insects. Rodenticides often are used in animal housing facilities. Veterinarians and their helpers may be exposed to anesthetic gases, pharmaceuticals, including antineoplastic agents, disinfectants such as phenol and formaldehyde, and sterilants such as ethylene oxide. Great care must be taken to minimize occupational exposures to chemical hazards.