When working in an area with bat guano, which of the following precautions should be taken?

When working in an area with bat guano, wearing protective clothing and a cartridge respirator is crucial due to the health risks associated with handling this material. Bat guano can contain harmful pathogens and spores, particularly those related to histoplasmosis, which can be airborne when disturbed. The use of a cartridge respirator provides a higher level of protection than a simple face mask because it filters particulate matter and can help prevent inhalation of harmful spores. Protective clothing minimizes the risk of skin contact with the potentially infectious material, further safeguarding against any possible exposure.

While gloves are important to protect the hands, they do not provide protection against airborne pathogens. A simple face mask may not effectively filter out the harmful particles present in bat guano. Ignoring safety precautions is not an acceptable option, as it significantly increases the risk of health complications from exposure to contaminants.