Health & Safety: Bloodborne Pathogens Policy

Purpose

This policy pertains to spills of blood or other body fluids. It is not a first aid/emergency response procedure. This policy is specific to clean-up of such fluids.

Procedure

1. In the event of a serious injury resulting in release of blood or other body fluids which could contain pathogens (e.g., HIV or HBV), the first step is to treat the injured party. Personnel should familiarize themselves with [COMPANY NAME] First Response Team for this purpose.

2. Spilled body fluids should not be cleaned up without the appropriate protective equipment and materials specifically designated for such fluids. In the case where spilled body fluids need clean-up, this procedure must be followed by all personnel:

I. Advise the Supervisor on duty. The supervisor should be aware of the individual(s) doing the actual clean-up and the purpose of the cleanup.

II. Clean up the spilled fluids as follows:

a. Put on protective gloves.

b. Spread the absorbent material on the spilled body fluids, (e.g., paper towels) or use the Emergency First Responder Pack kit located in the medical supply cabinet.

c. Neutralize the potential pathogens with a 10% bleach-with-water solution or use the solution provided in the Emergency First Responder Pack. Cover the spill for 15 minutes.

d. Use paper towels to pick up material as best possible. Place all potentially contaminated materials in a leak-proof plastic bag.

e. Sweep/mop-up any additional neutralized/absorbed fluids and place in the leak-proof bag.

f. Clean sweep/mop materials with hot, soapy water. Lastly, remove gloves from inside-out and place in the bag.

g. Secure the bag and discard it as other trash.

h. Wash hands thoroughly in hot, soapy water.

3. After all activity is completed and checked by the supervisor; the supervisor should complete an accident/near miss investigation form or incident report, whichever is appropriate.