This requirement applies to all laboratory personnel. In certain facilities, operation of the ventilation system may be affected by a number of conditions. For example, air supply and exhaust rates may be reduced during off-hours or when the lights are turned off in the room. This information can be obtained by contacting Physical Plant. Broadly defined, however, reproductive toxins are materials that can interfere with reproductive functions or can cause damage to an exposed adult's ova, sperm, embryo, fetus or child.
Teratogens affect the developing embryo or fetus via exposures in the uterus.
There are few proven human teratogens. The vast majority of chemicals have not been conclusively studied for teratogenicity. However, pregnancy is often not confirmed until well into the first trimester. For this reason employees should not wait to assess any potential risk related to their jobs until pregnancy is confirmed. Employees should be knowledgeable about the toxicological properties of materials that are being used in the laboratory.