While workers in health care and emergency response are particularly at risk, there are numerous occupations that carry the possibility of coming in contact with blood-borne pathogens, such as HIV, and hepatitis B and C. Exposure to these viruses in the workplace can occur in several ways: being pricked by a contaminated needle or instrument, infected blood spread through open wounds, or by bodily fluids being splashed in the eyes, nose, or mouth. There are steps employers and workers can take to limit or prevent exposure to blood and body fluids.
Instructions
Create a Plan
1. Identify which safety hazards confront the workers and what can be done to remove, isolate or eliminate those threats, according to a guidebook published by Health and Safety Executive.
2. Develop a strategy that determines how the company will treat any and all workers who come in contaminated blood.
3. Train all employees on the ways in which they may be exposed to blood-borne pathogens, what protective equipment to wear, dispose of that equipment as well as any other possibly contaminated items, what immediate actions should be taken in case of exposure, and properly identify biohazard containers.
Minimize and Prevent Exposure
4. Provide easy access to sanitary gloves in the workplace. Make sure that workers wear them whenever the risk of exposure to blood or other body fluid is present. Depending on the workplace and degree of exposure, it may be necessary to also provide masks, gowns, and eye protection.
5. Clean any spilled blood with a fresh mixture of one part bleach diluted in ten parts water. First soak the blood up by covering the spill with paper towels, then pour the bleach solution over the towels. While wearing gloves, pick up the towels and clean with disinfectant.
6. Prohibit drinking, eating, smoking, applying chapstick, and handling contact lenses in all areas where workers may be potentially exposed to blood and blood-borne viruses.
7. Provide equipment with safety features, such as safety-tipped scissors and self-sheathing needles.
8. Require that all workers observe basic hygiene procedures and that they wash their hands with soap and water for at least ten to fifteen seconds after being exposed to blood or other body fluids.
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