Body Fluid Cleanup

Understanding the Risks

Properly handling and cleaning up body fluids during a biohazard cleaning job is essential to maintaining a safe environment.

Types of Bodily Fluids:

Bodily fluids that may require cleanup include:

• Blood: Can carry bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis.
• Saliva: Although less risky, it can still transmit certain diseases.
• Urine: May contain harmful bacteria or viruses.
• Faeces: Can harbour pathogens like E. coli and norovirus.
• Vomit: Often contains infectious agents, especially in cases of gastrointestinal illnesses.

Health Risks Associated with Improper Cleanup:

Improper cleanup of these fluids can lead to serious health risks:

• Infections: Direct contact with contaminated fluids can lead to infections. For example, a cut or open wound exposed to blood can become infected with bloodborne pathogens.
• Disease Transmission: Bodily fluids can transmit diseases. Blood can carry HIV and hepatitis, while vomit and faeces can spread norovirus and other gastrointestinal illnesses.
• Cross-Contamination: Fluids can contaminate surfaces and objects, leading to the spread of pathogens to others who come into contact with these contaminated areas.
• Long-term Health Issues: Chronic exposure to specific pathogens can lead to long-term health issues, including chronic infections and diseases.

Essential Equipment and Biohazard Kits

Having the right equipment in a biohazard kit is crucial for safely and effectively cleaning up body fluids.
Here’s what a comprehensive biohazard kit should contain and why each component is important:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Gloves (Nitrile): Prevent direct contact with bodily fluids and reduce the risk of contamination.
• Face Masks (Surgical or N95 Respirators): Protect the respiratory system from airborne pathogens and shield against splashes.
• Goggles or Face Shields: Guard the eyes from splashes that can transmit infections.
• Gowns or Aprons: Shield clothing and skin from contaminants, providing an additional layer of protection.

Absorbent Materials

• Absorbent Pads: High-capacity pads for soaking up large spills quickly and effectively.
• Paper Towels: Useful for smaller spills and general cleanup tasks.
• Granular Absorbent: Powdery substances that absorb liquids and help solidify spills for easier removal.

Cleaning Tools

• Scoop and Scraper: Safe removal of solid waste to minimise direct contact and spread.
• Brushes and Sponges: For scrubbing and cleaning surfaces thoroughly.
• Mops and Buckets: Essential for cleaning larger areas and ensuring comprehensive sanitation.

Disinfectants and Cleaning Agents

Bleach Solution:

A powerful disinfectant that kills a broad range of pathogens, ensuring surfaces are sanitised.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: An effective and environmentally friendly disinfectant for thorough cleaning.
• Commercial Disinfectant Sprays: Pre-mixed solutions designed for ease of use and effectiveness.
• Enzymatic Cleaners: Break down organic matter like blood and bodily fluids, transforming them into harmless substances.

Biohazard Disposal Supplies

• Biohazard Bags: Specially marked bags for safe disposal of contaminated materials, preventing the spread of pathogens.
• Sharps Containers: Safe disposal of needles and other sharp objects to avoid injury and contamination.

Additional Safety and Cleanup Supplies

Hand Sanitiser:

• Alcohol-based hand sanitiser for decontaminating hands after removing gloves.

Disposable Towels and Wipes:

• For cleaning and drying surfaces, ensuring no contaminants are left behind.

Sealant Tape:

To secure biohazard bags and containers, ensuring safe and compliant disposal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Body Fluids

Cleaning up body fluids requires a systematic approach to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Follow these steps to handle the cleanup process properly:

Step 1: Preparation

Importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Choosing the proper PPE is critical for your safety. Ensure that the PPE you select provides adequate protection against the specific pathogens present in the body fluids you are cleaning.

Properly putting on PPE is just as important as selecting the right equipment. Make sure gloves, masks, goggles, and gowns are worn correctly to fully protect yourself from exposure.

Setting Up a Safe Perimeter

• Establish a safe perimeter around the affected area to prevent the spread of contaminants and restrict access.
• Use barriers, signs, or caution tape to mark the area and keep others away from the cleanup zone.

Creating a controlled environment helps manage the cleanup more effectively and minimises the risk of cross-contamination.

Step 2: Initial Cleanup

Removing and Disposing of Solid Waste

• Use a scoop and scraper to carefully remove solid waste, such as tissues or other debris, and place it in a biohazard bag.
• Avoid direct contact with the waste to prevent contamination.

Using Absorbent Materials for Liquid Cleanup

• Apply absorbent materials, like paper towels or absorbent pads, to soak up liquid body fluids.
• Ensure that the absorbent materials are thoroughly saturated with the fluids before disposal.

These initial steps help contain the fluids and prepare the area for thorough disinfection.

Step 3: Disinfection

Choosing the Right Disinfectant

• Select a disinfectant that is effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens, such as bleach solutions, hydrogen peroxide, or commercial disinfectant sprays.
• Ensure the disinfectant is suitable for the type of surface being cleaned.

Applying Disinfectant and Ensuring Adequate Contact Time

• Apply the disinfectant generously to the affected area, covering all contaminated surfaces.
• Allow the disinfectant to remain on the surface for the recommended contact time to ensure it effectively kills pathogens.

Proper disinfection is essential to eliminate any remaining microorganisms and ensure the area is safe.

Step 4: Disposal

Safe Disposal of Contaminated Materials

• Place all used absorbent materials, PPE, and other contaminated items into biohazard bags.
• Seal the biohazard bags securely to prevent leaks and further contamination

eGuidelines for Biohazard Waste Disposal

• Follow local regulations and guidelines for the disposal of biohazard waste. This may include taking the waste to a designated disposal facility or arranging for specialised disposal services.
• Do not dispose of biohazard waste in regular trash bins, as this poses a significant health risk.

Safe disposal of contaminated materials is critical to prevent the spread of pathogens and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Special Considerations for Cleaning Blood

Cleaning the blood in biohazard scenes requires extra caution due to the potential presence of bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis.

Here are additional precautions to take when dealing with blood:

Wear Additional PPE for Extra Protection

• Wear gowns or aprons to protect clothing and skin.
• Use face shields to protect your eyes, nose, and mouth from splashes.

Use Specific Cleaning Agents Designed for Blood Cleanup

• Enzymatic Cleaners: These cleaners are formulated to break down the proteins in the blood, making it easier to remove and sanitise the area.
  They are particularly effective at eliminating all traces of blood.
• Bleach Solutions: A diluted bleach solution (usually 1 part bleach to 10 parts water) is highly effective at killing bloodborne pathogens.
  Ensure the solution is in contact with the contaminated surface for the recommended time to achieve complete disinfection.
• Hydrogen Peroxide is another excellent option for disinfecting blood spills. It helps to break down blood components and has strong antimicrobial properties.

Additional Steps for Effective Blood Cleanup

• Containment: Quickly contain the blood spill to prevent it from spreading. Use absorbent materials to soak up the blood, and then dispose of these materials in biohazard bags.
• Disinfection: After removing the visible blood, apply the chosen disinfectant to the area. Allow adequate contact time for the disinfectant to work effectively.
• Final Inspection: Ensure that no traces of blood remain. Check for any hidden or overlooked areas, and re-clean if necessary.

Post-Cleanup Procedures

Proper post-cleanup procedures are crucial to ensure safety and prevent future contamination.

Personal Decontamination

• Carefully remove PPE to avoid contact with contaminants.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

Cleaning and Storing Equipment After Use

• Clean all reusable equipment with disinfectant.
• Allow equipment to dry completely before storing it in a clean, dry place.

Record-Keeping and Incident Reporting

• Document the cleanup process, including the date, time, and details of the incident.
• Report the incident to the relevant authorities or supervisors as required.

When to Call Professionals

Sometimes, professional cleanup services are necessary to handle body fluid spills safely and effectively.
Here’s when to call in the experts:

• Extensive Contamination: Large areas or significant amounts of body fluids that are difficult to manage with basic equipment.
• Known Infectious Diseases: When the body fluids are from a person with a known infectious disease, increasing the risk of transmission.
• Lack of Equipment or Expertise: If you do not have the proper equipment or knowledge to handle the cleanup safely.

Benefits of Hiring Certified Biohazard Cleaners

• Specialised Training: Professionals have specialised training in handling biohazard materials, ensuring thorough and safe cleanup.
• Proper Equipment: They use advanced equipment and high-grade disinfectants that are more effective than standard cleaning supplies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Certified cleaners follow strict guidelines and regulations for biohazard disposal, ensuring legal compliance and environmental safety.
• Peace of Mind: Hiring professionals reduces stress and ensures the area is completely decontaminated and safe for use.

Calling professional biohazard cleaners ensures a higher level of safety and thoroughness, protecting everyone involved from potential health risks.