Factors about blood spills:
(1) Usually the volume is relatively small (as compared to the potential for a chemical spill).
(2) Blood is non-volatile.
(3) Blood is somewhat viscous.
Steps for handling a blood spill:
(1) Contain the spill if possible.
(2) If an aerosol has been created, evacuate the area for 30 minutes.
(3) Keep the area clear and establish a perimeter.
(4) Remove clothing if it is contaminated. Place in biohazard bags for disinfection and cleaning.
(5) Rinse off any blood immediately from skin or mucous membranes. Flush the eyes if splashed. Clean skin with soap and water.
(6) Responders should wear appropriate personal protective clothing and gloves.
(7) If sharps are involved, gloves should be puncture resistant and a sharps container should be available. Use a broom or other instrument to reduce handling.
(8) Use an absorbent material to absorb most of the liquid.
(9) Clean the spill area with a detergent.
(10) Flood the area with a disinfectant. This should be left in contact a sufficient period of time to ensure proper action.
(11) Wipe up any residual disinfectant.
(12) Dispose of all materials as biohazardous waste. All blood contaminated items should be either autoclaved or incinerated.
Special situations:
(1) If the spill occurs in a centrifuge (from a broken tube), then turn off the power immediately and leave the cover closed for 30 minutes to reduce any aerosols.
(2) Furniture in areas where blood spillage is possible should be covered with a plastic material that does not absorb blood.
(3) Carpets are a mess.
A person splashed with blood should be evaluated in employee health to determine the severity of the exposure and the need for active intervention or passive monitoring.
