Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Manual: Cleaning Exposed Areas
CLEANING EXPOSED AREAS & CLOTHING
As explained in the previous chapter, rinsing and washing an exposed area of your body with hot water and soap is recommended. Infected blood and other potentially infectious materials on clothing pose significant risks and must be handled with care. If any blood or bodily fluids are on your clothes, your clothes need to be washed and sanitized prior to reuse. Similarly, if blood or bodily fluid is on your protective gear, you should either dispose of the gear (in a biohazard container) or sanitize it to remove bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials. Biohazard containers should be puncture resistant, leak-proof and label, symbol or color-coded.
Cleaning exposed areas requires careful attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. It is crucial to use appropriate respiratory protection when cleaning exposed areas to prevent inhalation of harmful pathogens. Begin by covering the spill with absorbent towels to soak up as much blood as possible. Avoid using your hands; instead, use a heavy object to apply pressure.
Ensure that the cleanup of a blood spill is thorough and precise to prevent exposure to pathogens such as HIV, MRSA, Hepatitis B, and C. Follow the guidelines and procedures necessary for bloodborne pathogen cleanup, including the use of EPA-registered disinfectants.
Steps to Decontaminate an Area:
- Ensure scene safety and wear PPE
- Throw away any debris in the area
- Use absorbent towels to wipe the area
- Spray disinfectant on the area
- After several minutes, wipe the area dry
- Appropriately dispose of cleaning materials in biohazard containers
- Wash your hands