Response to Emergencies Involving Blood or Body Fluids
If you are faced with a spill of blood or body fluids, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Carefully cover the spill with an absorbent material, such as paper towels, to prevent splashing.
- Decontaminate the area of the spill using an appropriate disinfectant, such as a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water. When pouring disinfectant over the area always pour gently and work from the edge of the spill towards the center to prevent the contamination from spreading out.
- Wait 10 minutes to ensure adequate decontamination, and then carefully wipe up the spilled material. Be very alert for broken glass or sharps in or around the spill.
- Disinfect all mops and cleaning tools after the job is done.
- Dispose of all contaminated materials appropriately.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after the clean up is complete.