Biological Hazards

Biological Hazards

Exposure to a blood borne disease and air borne contagion is a potential risk to staff. These diseases include HIV, hepatitis (HBV and HCV), and influenza.  Stringent controls are required wherever there are activities that expose staff to this foreseeable risk.

Standard Precautions

• Exclusion from treatments and tests if staff have a cut or abrasion which is not completely sealed by a waterproof dressing
• Use of single use surgical gloves, and eye goggles, as standard personal protective equipment when carrying out any procedure where blood may be involved
• Use of ‘single use’ devices to prick skin and draw blood
• Non-recapping of any device and direct disposal into a biohazard sharps container
• Appropriate disposal of any biohazardous waste and washing of hands

 Controls to minimise risk of blood splatter

• Test strips placed flat on a hard surface to minimise risk of their flicking up and spraying blood
• Direct application of blood to test strips.