Essential Workplace Safety Guidelines: Protecting Against Infections and Hazardous Materials
Q 1: How can I be infected at work? • Avoid contact between mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) and infected blood or body fluids. • Prevent contact between broken or damaged skin and infected blood or body fluids. • Be cautious of injuries with contaminated needles or sharps. Q2: What about between lab spaces? When moving materials or equipment between labs or buildings: • Utilize secondary containment like a bucket whenever possible. • Follow the "one glove policy" - wear one glove to handle materials and keep one hand ungloved for opening doors, pushing elevator buttons, etc. • If handling with one hand isn't feasible, use a cart or ask a lab mate for assistance. Q3: What to do if you have an exposure? • Cease work immediately and notify others in your vicinity. • If there's a splash or spill, wash the exposed area with soap and water for 15 minutes; irrigate mucous membranes with water for 15 minutes. • Seek medical attention if necessary