Developing a standard spill response protocol
Facilities should develop a standard protocol for dealing with spills. Protocols will vary based on the biological agent, but a systematic process should involve steps such as the following:
- Alert staff to the spill and assess the situation
- Contain the spread of the spill
- Neutralize and absorb the spill
- Begin collection, decontamination, and disposal
Dan Scungio, MT(ASCP), SLS, laboratory safety officer for multihospital system Sentara Healthcare in Virginia, describes an example situation:
“A routine biological spill protocol starts with first securing the site, then making sure others in the department are aware and do not enter the immediate vicinity. Next, ensure proper personal protective equipment is in use (e.g., lab coat, gloves, face protection, shoe covers). Inspect the spill for other hazards (like broken glass). Lay down barrier spill pads or powders if the spill is spreading, then lay absorbent pads or powders on top to absorb the spilled material. Sweep up the absorbents and any pads or pillows used and dispose of into regulated medical waste containers (use a sharps container if glass is involved). Disinfect the area using a 10% bleach product.”
A 10% bleach product may not be appropriate for all spills. Laboratories should disinfect spill areas using an Environmental Protection Agency-registered disinfectant and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Editor’s note: This article was excerpted from our Medical Environment Update newsletter.