Infection Control: Federal Agencies

Infection Control: Federal Agencies

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Role of the EPA:

  • Responsible for licensing disinfecting agents.

  • Every disinfectant label must display an EPA registration number to confirm it meets regulatory standards.

• Types of Disinfectants:

  • Hospital Grade Disinfectants:

  • Effective at cleaning and disinfecting blood and bodily fluids in hospitals.

  • Tuberculocidal Disinfectants:

  • Specifically kills bacteria that cause tuberculosis.

  • May be too potent for salon tools, causing potential damage.

  • Importance of understanding which grade is being used in salons.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

• Purpose of OSHA:

  • Created to regulate and enforce workplace health and safety standards.

• Safety Data Sheets (SDS):

  • Chemical manufacturers are required to provide an SDS for all potentially hazardous products.

  • Formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

  • SDS includes:

  • Hazardous ingredient information.

  • Safe handling and usage instructions.

  • Precautions to minimize risks such as fire, burns, and overexposure.

  • Regulatory Requirement:

  • All schools, beauty schools, barber shops, and nail salons must have an SDS available on-site during regular business hours.

  • Non-compliance can lead to fines.

• Universal Precautions:

  • Guidelines published by OSHA to ensure:

  • Both the employer and employee assume that all human blood and body fluids are potentially infectious for bloodborne pathogens.

  • Essential practices for minimizing exposure and handling hazardous substances in the workplace.