Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms that are transmitted via human blood, saliva and other bodily fluids. They include — but are not limited to — hepatitis B and C, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Here are a few simple rules to follow when faced with the possibility of exposure to bloodborne pathogens, or any body fluids for that matter.
- PROTECT — Protect yourself from blood or blood-containing materials. This includes wearing protective equipment such as gloves and goggles and using a breathing barrier if you are performing CPR. Consider your options if you find yourself with no protective equipment.
- ACT — If you find you have come into contact with another person’s blood or other body fluids, act quickly and safely. Wash the area immediately with hot, soapy water for up to a minute before rinsing. If your eyes have been contaminated, flush them with clean water for up to five minutes. If a flushing agent is not available at the scene, have someone get water for you. All exposure incidents are to be reported, investigated and documented.
- CLEAN — After an emergency, clean any areas contaminated with blood or body fluids. Wear protective equipment. Clean the area with neutral disinfectant prescribed by the laboratory, if available. If not, combine a solution of ½ cup of bleach to 1 quart of water. Completely flush the area and let the solution stand for at least three minutes. Be careful when wiping up the area, especially if you are dealing with broken glass or wood or metal splinters. Put all soiled items, including soiled cleaning materials, in a plastic bag and take it to the dumpster as soon as you are finished. If there is an injection device, broken glass or metal sweep up with a broom and dustpan. Put items in a sharps container or cardboard box for removal. If a situation arises in which you observe more than a few drops of blood, contact the Custodial Department.
- TELL — Report the incident immediately to your instructor, supervisor or laboratory manager and call 911 if necessary for immediate medical attention. Call the Physical Plant services office at 740-283-6278 or the Security Office at 740-283-6911 to contact the Custodial Department for clean-up.
