Environmental Health

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published updated regulations manuals for 2023, which may impact University units and departments that ship dangerous goods by air. Notable changes include:

If you see wildlife that is visibly injured, sick or deceased at a UW location, report it promptly to EH&S via our reporting form (UWNetID required) or by calling (206) 543-7262.

The University works with federal wildlife biologists and professional contractors to evaluate animals, and where necessary, to support safe and appropriate removal of sick, injured, or dead wildlife from campus locations.

A strain of avian influenza virus (H5N1) has been detected in wild birds and domestic poultry in many parts of the U.S. and in Washington state. Avian influenza has been confirmed in raccoon, raptor, hawk, waterfowl, raven and crow samples in Washington state, including samples from King and Pierce counties.

The December 2022 version of the UW Laboratory Safety Manual (LSM) is now available for download or printing. It's time to review, bookmark, or print a copy of the updated LSM and make it available for all staff and students in your lab. Keeping your safety documents up to date and easily accessible are key for staying safe.

Although bats are a key part of our ecosystem, it is important to remember that a small proportion of bats in Washington state carry rabies, a deadly disease in the saliva of infected animals.

You may have noticed bats flying around campus. They are commonly seen flying at dusk, which is normal and not a cause for concern. However, if a bat is found on the ground or indoors, it may be an indication of something wrong with the bat.