International Council
for Archaeozoology

Health and Safety Guidelines

The study of archaeozoological remains is not inherently dangerous, but there are legal and health implications to handling animal remains. These may vary according to your location, the provenience of the samples and whether you are dealing with archaeological samples, bone and/or animal tissues. The best way to prepare for potential problems is to obtain proper documentation. Below is a partial list of some commonly encountered risks and suggested sources. Members are strongly encouraged to acquaint themselves with ICAZ’s Professional Protocols.

*We need your help to expand the number of links provided in the sections below. If you have links to country/regional sources that complement the information provided here, please fill out this short Google form. If you cannot access the Google form, please send the links with the heading (microorganism/transportation/zoonotic/work&safety) and, if the link doesn’t make it obvious, the relevant country, to: icazhealth.safety AT gmail.com.

  1. Microorganisms

  2. Transportation of Remains

  3. Zoonotic Diseases

  4. Work and Safety Regulations



1. Microorganisms

Improperly curated bone samples may play host to microorganisms such as moulds and fungi that are potentially harmful. Health effects include irritation, allergic reaction, infection and, in extreme cases, toxic response. Opening sample bags may allow spores or fine particles to become airborne causing irritation of the eyes and/or airways, or worse (pulmonary infections may result). Contact with moulds, fungi or other microorganisms can produce skin irritations. Some people may be more susceptible to adverse reactions than others. Any unusual symptoms should be reported to a health provider. Basic recommendations include washing one’s hands and wearing a mask if samples are suspected of harbouring mould and/or fungus, or if fine particles are present and are likely to be inhaled. Further recommendations are provided in the regional links, below.

Regional links:


2. Transportation of Animal Remains

Transporting animal remains is governed by regulations such as the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). You should be aware of these regulations in order to avoid potential legal problems. Some countries have internal regulations, as well as adhering to CITES guidelines.

Regional links:


3. Zoonotic Diseases

Receiving or collecting animal carcasses for skeletal preparation could put you at risk of contracting a zoonotic disease. Be aware of endemic diseases and modes of transmission. Information about this health risk will vary according to your geographic location; you should seek local sources of information.

Regional links:


4. Work and Safety Regulations

Don’t forget that work and safety regulations will apply if you are working in an institutional context (University, Museum, etc.), even if only temporarily. Your institution’s regulations may apply in the field if you are hiring students, in addition to local regulations. Familiarise yourself with the regulations that may apply in your situation (e.g., by contacting your institution’s Health and Work Safety officer, or health insurer).

Regional links:


This information was prepared by Ariane Burke, chair of the sub-committee on health and safety (last updated: 2018-08-31)