Decontamination of
Bodily Fluid Spills
- Replaces: Supersedes all previous information on the same topic
- Reviewed: Annually
- Section Revised: Split form Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Exposure Control Plan and Moved to Google Sites 1/1/2022; revised 1/1/2022,
- Contact: Safety Staff
Purpose
To minimize danger of environmental contamination and possible spread of or exposure to blood-borne pathogens at the health centers.
Equipment and Supplies Needed
Exam gloves (latex or non latex)
Any EPA-registered disinfectant labeled as effective against HIV and HBV. Solution must be in a spray bottle
Paper towels and absorbent powder
Red plastic biohazard bag (red bag)
Tongs/hemostat
Broom/brush and dust pan
Procedure
Assemble necessary supplies/equipment.
Put on exam gloves.
Sprinkle absorbent powder on spill; allow to gel.
Pick up large pieces of glass with tongs or hemostat and place in sharps container.
Sweep up spill and gelled absorbent powder. Discard in red bag.
Spray the spill area with solution (any EPA-registered disinfectant labeled as effective against HIV and HBV until wet).
Wipe the solution up with a paper towel. Discard in the red bag.
Remove the gloves and place them into the red bag.
Tie the red bag.
Place the red bag into class A waste container located in designated area.
Wash hands thoroughly.
Miscellaneous
On small spill area and skin surfaces, a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe may be used to disinfect the area.
Hands must be washed as soon as practical after an exposure to blood/bodily fluid.
After a spill area has been decontaminated, it should be cleaned using regular environmental disinfectants.
Utilize standard precautions at all times.
All exposures to blood/bodily fluids must be reported to the supervisor and the Employee Health Nurse.