Lesson 3: Biological & Chemical Safety

Bloodborne Pathogen Standard

An OSHA regulation limiting occupational exposure to blood and other potentially infectious material (OPIM)

Universal Precautions

An infection control approach treating all blood and certain body fluids as infectious

Hazard Communications Standard (HCS)

A “right to know” law ensuring employees are informed about chemical hazards at work

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Specialized clothing or equipment (gloves, masks, gowns) worn for protection against hazards

Donning & Doffing

The specific procedures for putting on (donning) and taking off (doffing) PPE safely

Sharps Container

A puncture-resistant, leak-proof container for the safe disposal of needles and scalpels.

Primary Components of Standard Precaustions

1. Hand hygiene

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

3. Patient Care Equipment

4. Needle stick and Sharps Injury Prevention

5. Patient Placement

Healthcare workers must clean their hands when…

• Before and after every patient interaction

• After any contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated surfaces.

PPE include…

1. Gloves

2. Gowns

3. Masks

4. Face Shields

5. Eye Protection

Red Bag (Biohazard)

Use for items saturated with blood or OPIM (e.g., gauze soaked in blood). "Saturated" means blood would drip if squeezed.

Sanitary Sewer

Bodily fluids like urine or small amounts of blood samples can often be poured down a sanitary drain (check facility protocol).

Regular Trash

Items not saturated with blood, such as a cotton ball with a single drop of blood, patient table paper (unless soiled with fluids), or instrument wrappers.