::. Animal Exposure Program (AEP)

The AEP provides workers with appropriately targeted medical services to inform them of occupationally indicated immunizations, potential workplace health hazards, steps to avoid injury and appropriate medical care in the event of an injury to reduce their risk of significant or long-term health problems.

Federal employees are required to participate in this program, if they are involved in the direct care of animals or their living quarters or have direct contact with animals, their viable tissues, body fluids or waste.

Employees are enrolled in the AEP in conjunction with the pre-placement physical. Learn more about physical medical evaluations. Employees working with small animals require a one time clearance. Employees working with non-human primates require semi-annual tuberculosis screening.

Contractors are required to provide a comparable service to their employees working at the NIH.

Learn more about Animal Safety.