OSHA cites, fines Pitt U $5,250 for lab monkey bite

[Omaha Steve]

http://ydr.inyork.com/ci_11148287

The Associated Press
Updated: 12/05/2008 03:54:22 PM EST

PITTSBURGH—The federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration has cited the University of Pittsburgh and fined it $5,250 after a research monkey bit and mauled a lab technician's hand.

Fifty-four-year-old Patricia Boyle, of Avalon, was feeding the macaque on Sept. 24 when it bit her right hand. She spent eight days in the hospital, underwent three surgeries and sustained bone, tendon and neurological damage.

She's still undergoing rehabilitation therapy but has returned to work full time.

OSHA says the university failed to provide training and protective gloves, among other safety equipment, which could have helped prevent the injuries.

A university spokesman says it will appeal the fines.